Canadian Athletes Maude Charron and Andre De Grasse to Lead Team at Paris Olympics Opening Ceremony

Canadian weightlifter Maude Charron and sprinter Andre De Grasse have been chosen as the flag bearers for Canada at the upcoming opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics. The duo, selected by the Canadian Olympic Committee, will lead the delegation during the global presentation on the Seine, marking the start of the Olympic Games.

De Grasse expressed his excitement, stating, «It’s a huge honor, I’m very happy, and it’s a dream coming true. I have never really been to an opening ceremony, so being part of it is something I am grateful for.» He sees this role as a significant motivator as he prepares for his third Olympic appearance.

Charron, who won a gold medal in the 64 kg category during her Olympic debut in Tokyo, also expressed her amazement at being selected. «I had dreamed of this, yes, but believing it was possible was another story. I feel so lucky and honored to share this role with someone as extraordinary as Andre,» she said, smiling.

Both athletes are coming to Paris to defend their titles, having achieved gold in Tokyo. De Grasse aims to retain his title in the 200m race while also competing in the 100m and the 4x100m relay. He mentioned, «I’m just trying to focus on enjoying the moment and using my past successes to ease the pressure of being the defending champion.»

Charron, on the other hand, is moving into the 59 kg weight category, as her initial weight class has been removed from the Olympic program. She is confident about her new category, stating, «I’ve changed my approach to the Olympics and my goals, and I’m just as strong as I was before, even after losing some weight.»

Charron is also honored to be sharing the flag bearer role with De Grasse, whom she admires greatly. «When I first saw Andre at the Olympics, I was a bit of a fan like many others. It’s a perfect combination of strength and speed leading our team,» she remarked.

Charron and De Grasse will take over the position previously held by basketball player Miranda Ayim and rugby player Nathan Hirayama, who led the Canadian delegation during the Tokyo opening ceremony. The athletics events will kick off on August 1, just days before De Grasse competes in the 100m at the Stade de France and Charron takes to the stage on August 8 at the Aréna Paris Sud.