Bahrain at the Paris 2024 Olympics

Bahrain’s swimming team members Saud Ghali and Amani Al-Obaidli brought pride to the kingdom when they both lifted the flag during the Paris Olympic Games opening ceremony.

Bahrain’s swimming team members Saud Ghali and Amani Al-Obaidli brought pride to the kingdom when they both lifted the flag during the Paris Olympic Games opening ceremony.

And they did so alongside the Bahraini delegation that made a memorable appearance whilst sailing down the Seine River in a special boat. The parade of participating countries was conducted on 85 boats.

"I am grateful to the Bahrain Olympic Committee for selecting me to carry the kingdom's flag at this global sporting event,” said Ghali. “It is a beautiful moment I will never forget, especially during such a spectacular opening ceremony with a large audience and extensive media coverage."

Meanwhile, Al-Obaidli shared how ‘being chosen to carry the flag is a great honour for any athlete’.

“Every athlete dreams of this opportunity, which will significantly motivate my sports career,” she said. “It is a wonderful memory that I will always hold dear."

People watching the ceremony also had plenty of positive notes to make on Bahrain’s boat…which was the intention of the delegation and organising committee.

Mission Director Ahmed Abdul Ghaffar stated that securing a unique boat ensures Bahrain’s distinct presence. Plus, they didn’t share a boat with any other country, unlike many other delegations…and it didn’t rain during their passage either.

“Although it rained heavily later, soaking us all, these are the moments of pride and honour that make representing our country so special, despite any fatigue or challenges we faced,” said Abdul Ghaffar.

Her Excellency Shaikha Hessa bint Khalid Al Khalifa, a member of the Board of Directors of the Olympic Committee and Head of the Gender Equality Committee, expressed her pride as well in the remarkable representation of women in Bahrain's team for the Olympics as eight of the 14 athletes are women.

"I am pleased and proud of the Bahraini team players who have qualified for the Paris 2024 Olympics,” said Shaikha Hessa. “This moment culminates years of hard work, training, and dedication. I am confident that you will perform your best at this global sporting event. The Paris Olympics is not just an opportunity for competition but also a platform to represent Bahrain in the best possible way. Your participation is an achievement, and I wish you all the best and success in the upcoming competitions.”