IOC President Thomas Bach Awards Olympic Order to French President Emmanuel Macron

In recognition of his immense support for the success of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and his dedication to the Olympic ideal, which was cherished by the "father of modern Olympism," Pierre de Coubertin, President Emmanuel Macron was awarded the Gold Olympic Order. This accolade honors his tireless commitment and vision for the Games, which made the Paris edition an unforgettable event and a symbol of unity for all of humanity.

After Paris was selected in 2017, Macron gave his full support to the French capital's bid to host the 2024 Games. During his first visit to the IOC in Lausanne, Macron not only expressed his support but also demonstrated a deep understanding and unique vision for the Olympic project. He recognized the significant potential of the Games to unite France and inspire the world.

- From the first time we met, it became obvious to me that President Emmanuel Macron brought a special energy and vision to this project. He not only supported the bid but embraced it wholeheartedly. He knew every detail of the project and always saw the Paris 2024 Olympic Games as a unifying project, using the power of sport to bring the people of France together and, in doing so, to unite the entire world - recalled IOC President Thomas Bach, adding:

- Despite the political challenges and risks inherent in such a project, President Macron was able to see beyond the bid itself. His leadership was decisive in bringing together public authorities at all levels, overcoming political differences, and creating a unique political synergy around the Paris Games.

One of the most striking examples of this collaboration was the organization of the Olympic Games opening ceremony, an unprecedented event in the heart of Paris. The idea, which the IOC proposed and President Macron, in agreement with the Organizing Committee and French authorities, turned into a spectacular reality, featuring a ceremony and a parade along the Seine River, showcasing iconic monuments like Notre-Dame, the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre. This historic moment directed the eyes of the world to Paris, France, and the Olympic movement, becoming a symbol of unity and peace.

Additionally, Macron supported the Olympic Games' mission of peace at a time when the IOC faced numerous attacks and threats of boycotts related to the participation of all athletes, regardless of their nationality.

Upon receiving this award, President Macron responded:

- You do me a great honor by awarding me this order, a recognition that belongs to all of France. Together, we have achieved magnificent success with these Games. Thank you for this honor. Your kind words about the organization of the Olympic Games are not for one person but for the efforts of an entire nation. It was a human collective, seven years involved in the Games project. But above all, they were involved because of your trust in us. And so, I will respond to your gratitude with sincere thanks, for without the trust of the IOC, its members, leadership, and all teams, without a constant, demanding, but also very cooperative relationship over seven years, we would never have achieved all of this.