Three days before the opening of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, the Council of Europe signalled the start of the Paralympic Torch Relay in Strasbourg, hosted by the organisation's Secretary General Marija Pejčinović Burić.
The first torch was borne by Jean-Paul Gresse, who for 13 years was president of the 68th Prefecture Handicap Sports Committee after a 40-year career as a specialist physical activity coach for disabled sports, and was lit in the forecourt of the Council of Europe before continuing on to the Orangerie Park.
The ceremony was attended by Parliament's Secretary General Despina Chatzivasiliu Tsovilis, the President of the European Union of Alsace Frédéric Biéry, Eurometropole President Pierre Ambes and Mayor of Strasbourg Jeanne Barseghian.
Upon arriving in France, the Paralympic flame was split into 12 flames and welcomed simultaneously in the same number of locations, including Strasbourg.
The Council of Europe, whose goal is to make sport healthy, ethical and inclusive, welcomed the Olympic flame on 26 June and the Paralympic flame today.
Speech by the Secretary General of the National Assembly
The Council of Europe and Sport: Strategic priorities for 2022-2025
Meeting of Ministers Responsible for Sports (October 8-10, Porto)
