Greece are the first nation to make their way down the River Seine for tonight's open-air parade to Open the Paris 2024 Olympics

Greece proudly leads the parade of nations along the Seine during the opening ceremony of #Paris2024. As the birthplace of the Olympic Games, Greece holds a special tradition of marching at the forefront.

Greece is proud to “sail” first on the Seine River during the spectacular Opening Ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, led by flag bearers Antigoni Drisbioti and Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Giannis Antetokounmpo makes history as the first Black flagbearer for Greece during the Opening Ceremony in Paris

Just a kid from Sepolia… How far he has come.

Giannis Antetokounmpo became the first black flag bearer for Greece at the Olympics!

One of the most recognized traditions of the Olympic Games is the order in which the participating nations enter the stadium. Greece, the historic birthplace of the Olympic Games, will always lead the parade.

This custom dates back to the revival of the modern Olympic Games in 1896, when Athens was chosen as the inaugural host city. Ever since then, the Greek team and flag have proudly entered first at each Summer and Winter Olympic Games.

“It’s a way to honor Greece’s pivotal role in creating the Olympic movement that we all cherish today,” said International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach. “The Greeks are the founding fathers of this global sporting event, and we want to recognize that legacy every four years.”

After the Greek contingent, the remaining nations will enter the stadium in alphabetical order based on the language of the host country. This means Afghanistan will be the second nation to parade, followed by South Africa, and so on. The host country, France, will enter last to close out the ceremony.

The significance of Greece’s prominent placement extends beyond the opening parade. During the closing ceremony, the Greek flag will also be prominently displayed, a nod to the ancient Olympic Games that were held in Greece for over a millennium, from 776 BC to 393 AD.

“It’s a powerful symbol that connects the modern Olympics to their historic roots,” added Bach. “As the world watches on, we want to make sure Greece’s foundational role is always honored and celebrated.”

As the athletes of 207 nations prepare to compete over the next two weeks, the world will once again be reminded of the Olympic Games’ Greek origins through this time-honored tradition.