France: Olympic Flame to arrive in Marseille, May 8-9, prompting heightened security

The Olympic Flame will arrive in Marseille on May 8 to mark the formal start of the Paris Games 2024. Local authorities will implement comprehensive security restrictions to enable the planned commemorations. Events will center on the Vieux-Port area of the city on May 8. On May 9, the national Torch Relay will start in Marseille; authorities will close roads and impose traffic diversions along the planned route. The key events are:

May 8

• 07:00. Authorities will close central areas of Vieux-Port to traffic and implement security checks for pedestrians.

• 11:00. The sailing ship Belem will arrive outside the harbor, carrying the Olympic Flame. Authorities will control access to viewpoints overlooking the harbor.

• 19:00. The Belem arrives at the port. Celebrations will include: lighting the Olympic cauldron, fireworks, and a musical concert.

May 9

• 07:00. Authorities will impose traffic restrictions along the route of the Torch Relay.

• 08:20. Arrival of the Olympic Flame at Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde.

• All day. Torch Relay to include the following locations: Stade Velodrome, Estrangin, Parc Borely, Marina Olympique, Palais du Pharo, la Viste, Arenc, Parc de Font-Obscure, Parc de la Moline, Palais Longchamp, le Dome, and Perier.

Authorities will deploy significant security forces to facilitate the events. Road closures, traffic diversions, and enhanced security measures will prompt transport disruptions.