Paris, France: Nasser Al Khelaïfi, the President of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), took part in the Olympic Torch relay ahead of the 2024 Summer Olympic Games. The relay is traveling through over 400 towns and cities in France with the help of various notable figures from sports, entertainment, and culture. Al-Khelaïfi was given the opportunity by the International Olympic Committee to carry the Olympic Torch in Vigneux-sur-Seine, where he ran for nearly 500 meters before passing it to the former head of the Epinay judo club.
Al-Khelaïfi, a former ATP tennis player and now Chairman of beIN MEDIA GROUP and Qatar Sports Investments, expressed his gratitude for the chance to carry the Olympic Torch. He spoke about how sports have impacted his life and allowed him to connect with people from different backgrounds. Al-Khelaïfi mentioned that it was a dream come true for him to carry the torch as a Qatari, Arab, and Muslim in Paris, representing unity, friendship, and peace. He carried the torch along Avenue Henri Barbusse, close to PSG’s home stadium, Parc des Princes, which will host several football matches during the Games.
Paris Saint-Germain is proud to have 26 male and female athletes competing in various sports at the Olympic Games. Al-Khelaïfi expressed his pride in the athletes and the club’s participation in the Games, highlighting the significance for both PSG and the State of Qatar. Qatar is sending a delegation of 14 athletes to Paris 2024, including high jumper Mutaz Barshim and weightlifter Fares Ibrahim Hassouna, who have both achieved success in previous Olympic Games. At Tokyo 2020, PSG celebrated 15 Olympic and four Paralympic medallists, showcasing the club’s support for Olympic sports.
The Olympic Games Paris 2024 will begin on July 26, with preliminary events in Soccer and Rugby Sevens starting on July 24. The Games will feature a variety of sports and competitions, culminating in a closing ceremony on August 11. With over 70 staff from PSG assisting in various roles at the Games, the club is excited to be part of the sporting spectacle in their home city of Paris. Al-Khelaïfi emphasized the honor for PSG, himself, and all club members to be involved in the prestigious event.
Al-Khelaïfi’s participation in the Olympic Torch relay reflects the spirit of unity and diversity that the Games symbolize. The torch passing through different communities in France with the help of notable personalities showcases the importance of sports in bringing people together. The opportunity for Al-Khelaïfi to carry the torch and represent his country and club in the relay is a testament to the power of sports in fostering connections and celebrating diversity. PSG’s history of supporting Olympic sports and providing athletes with opportunities to compete at the highest level highlights the club’s commitment to promoting sports excellence.
Overall, Al-Khelaïfi’s involvement in the Olympic Torch relay demonstrates PSG’s dedication to promoting sports and unity on a global scale. The club’s participation in the Olympic Games Paris 2024 reflects their commitment to supporting athletes and celebrating the spirit of competition. With athletes from PSG and Qatar competing at the Games, the club is proud to be part of this international event and looks forward to witnessing incredible sporting achievements in their home city of Paris.
