The Ethiopian Olympic delegation arrived in Paris on Thursday morning to a warm welcome as they prepare to compete in the 33rd Olympic Games.
The 40-member team, which includes athletes, officials, and support staff, landed at Paris International Airport at 8:30 AM local time. They were greeted enthusiastically by representatives from the Ethiopian Embassy in Paris and members of the local Ethiopian community.
This initial group comprises the Ethiopian Olympic Executive Board, regional office chiefs, representatives from various sports federations, the swimming team, and reserve athletes. The remaining members of the Ethiopian Olympic contingent are scheduled to arrive in Paris in five separate groups over the coming days.
Ethiopia will be represented by 39 athletes competing in athletics, swimming, and boxing at the Games, which are set to run from July 26 to August 11, 2024. The Olympic Games will officially commence with an opening ceremony on Friday at 2:30 PM.
The Paris 2024 Olympics will feature 10,714 athletes from 206 nations, as well as the Olympic Refugee Team and independent athletes, competing across 32 sports.
Prior to their departure, the Ethiopian Olympic delegation attended a ceremonial send-off at the national palace. The event was attended by high-ranking officials including President Sahle-Work Zewde, Speaker of the House of Federation Agegnehu Teshager, Minister of Culture and Sports Shewit Shanka, Ethiopian Olympic Committee President Ashebir Woldegiorgis, and Ethiopian Athletics Federation President Derartu Tulu.
As the world's eyes turn to Paris, Ethiopia's athletes are poised to showcase their talents on the global stage, carrying the hopes and aspirations of their nation.