Paralympic Games: Alexis Hanquinquant and Nantenin Keïta are France’s flag-bearers
At the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, Alexis Hanquinquant and Nantenin Keïta had the honor of carrying the French flag.
Following an online vote by French athletes on July 9 and 10, triathlete Alexis Hanquinquant and athlete Nantenin Keïta were chosen to carry the French flag at the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. The 2 athletes embody the values of sport and resilience. Their election marks a major first in their respective careers. After Tokyo 2020, where Stéphane Houdet and Sandrine Martinet carried the flag together… Once again, it’s a mixed duo who have been chosen. This underlines the importance of equality and collaboration within the French delegation.
Alexis Hanquinquant: the rise of a Paralympic champion
Alexis Hanquinquant, from Yvetot in Normandy, is an emblematic figure in para triathlon. He made his mark when he became Paralympic champion at the Tokyo 2020 Games. Since then, he has continued to dominate his discipline, winning several more world titles. His story is a true lesson in courage and perseverance. After a work accident in 2010 that cost him a leg, Alexis found in sport a new passion and a way to rebuild his life. Today, he is more than ever ready to represent his country. He hopes to inspire many athletes with his story and his love of sport.
Nantenin Keïta: excellence and determination on the track
Nantenin Keïta is an accomplished para-athlete. Born in Bamako, Mali, Nantenin joined the French team several years ago. Since then, she has continued to shine on the track. With four Paralympic medals to her credit, including a gold in Rio in 2016, she is one of the leading figures in French Paralympic athletics. Nantenin, who has albinism and suffers from partial blindness, has always used her disability as a strength to forge ahead. As such, she embodies determination and ambition. She is also preparing to bid farewell to competition at these Paris 2024 Games, hoping to end her career in style on French soil.
With Alexis Hanquinquant and Nantenin Keïta, France is worthily represented at the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. A powerful moment that will mark the history of these two athletes and inspire millions of people around the world.
