At the Stade de France, a majestic bell has become an instant sensation, symbolizing a new Parisian tradition. Athletes who win gold medals have the privilege of ringing the bell, etched with “2024 Paris,” which will remain a part of the city’s history beyond the Games. Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei, a gold medalist in the 10,000m, is among the select few who have had the honour.
The bell’s significance lies in its rich history and future purpose. Cast in the same forge as the new Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral bells, it will be hung at the renovated Cathedral after the Games. This tradition began with rugby sevens winners ringing the bell, but now only gold medalists in track and field events have the privilege.
Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral is the most famous of the Gothic cathedrals of the Middle Ages and is distinguished for its size, antiquity, and architectural interest. However, in 2019, a fire gutted the cathedral and caused the collapse of Notre-Dame’s spire and part of its roof. Five years later, the restoration has made significant progress.
Leslie Dufaux, head of sports presentation, conceived the idea to create something unique to Paris. She collaborated with the Fonderie Cornille Havard in Normandy, which was already crafting bells for Notre-Dame. Dufaux ensured the bell would have a “second life” after the Olympics, replacing one of the smaller bells at the Cathedral.
This bell has become an iconic symbol of the 2024 Paris Olympics, bridging the Games with the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
