Seven things to look out for during the Olympic opening ceremony

The Olympic opening ceremony in Paris is set to be a grand event, featuring approximately 10,000 athletes from around the globe. Scheduled for Friday, the ceremony will last just under four hours, and many details remain under wraps, promising a host of surprises for viewers. The event will kick off at 18:30 BST, and those interested can catch the live broadcast on the BBC. This year, the ceremony will break tradition by taking place not in a stadium, but along the picturesque River Seine. Athletes will parade in boats, marking a first for the Olympics. An estimated 300,000 spectators are expected to line the riverbanks to witness this unique spectacle, which will cover a distance of 6 kilometers. Organizers are working diligently to ensure a smooth event, with a significant security presence involving tens of thousands of police officers. Earlier this year, French President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged that contingency plans had been developed in case of unforeseen challenges. The parade will glide past iconic landmarks such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, and the Eiffel Tower, creating a stunning backdrop for the festivities. The boats will navigate through the heart of Paris, showcasing the city's renowned bridges and monuments. The ceremony is designed to conclude as the sun sets, enhancing the enchanting atmosphere of the City of Light. Tony Estanguet, the president of the games, has promised that the timing will add a sublime and poetic quality to the show. The nickname 'City of Light' has various interpretations, ranging from its historical embrace of street lighting to its reputation as a center of intellect and creativity. Each boat will be equipped with cameras to provide close-up views of the athletes, adding an exciting element to the broadcast. However, it remains to be seen how this will be managed for countries with varying numbers of athletes. For instance, the USA is sending nearly 600 competitors, while some smaller nations will be represented by just one athlete. The spotlight will particularly shine on those entrusted with carrying their national flags. For Team GB, the honor has been given to two seasoned Olympians, diver Tom Daley and rower Helen Glover. The ceremony will also feature a diverse array of performers, including musicians and dancers. Artistic director Thomas Jolly has enlisted around 3,000 performers, but he has kept the identities of the famous acts under wraps. Speculation suggests that French-Malian R&B sensation Aya Nakamura, known for being the most-streamed French-language artist, could be among the performers. This has sparked controversy among some groups in France, who argue that her music is more influenced by Africa and the US than by France itself. Nakamura has responded to critics, stating, 'What do I owe you? Nothing. ' Additionally, there are rumors that Canadian superstar Céline Dion, who sings in both French and English, might perform, especially after being spotted in Paris recently. However, nothing has been confirmed, and a performance would mark a significant return for Dion, who had to cancel shows due to a rare neurological condition. Lady Gaga has also been seen in the city, fueling speculation about her potential involvement. Unfortunately for Daft Punk fans, the duo has squashed any rumors of their participation. Another highlight of the ceremony will be the lighting of the Olympic cauldron, a moment steeped in tradition and mystery. The identity of the final torchbearer is typically kept secret until the live reveal. In past ceremonies, this honor has been bestowed upon legendary figures such as Muhammad Ali and Aboriginal sprinter Cathy Freeman. The Olympic torch has made an extensive journey to Paris, having been carried by various individuals, including French football icon Thierry Henry and rapper Snoop Dogg, who will also play a role in the final stages of the relay. The athletes' parade is also expected to showcase a bold array of fashion, particularly given that Paris is a global fashion capital. Team USA and Team GB will be outfitted by renowned designers Ralph Lauren and Ben Sherman, respectively. The event's organizers have created around 3,000 unique costumes for both the Olympic and Paralympic opening and closing ceremonies, many of which are crafted from recycled materials to emphasize the games' commitment to sustainability. Daphné Bürki, the woman responsible for stitching these costumes, has expressed her excitement for what she calls 'the biggest show of the 21st century. ' Lastly, the ceremony will attract numerous dignitaries and celebrities, with over 100 heads of state and government expected to attend. Notable figures such as US First Lady Jill Biden and Argentine President Javier Milei are among those anticipated to be present, alongside French President Emmanuel Macron and Olympic chief Thomas Bach. The opening ceremony will be broadcast live on BBC One, BBC iPlayer, and the BBC Sport website and app, allowing audiences to experience this remarkable event from Paris.