Paris 2024 Olympics opening ceremony kicks off with a bang as hundreds of thousands of fans line River Seine for party

HUNDREDS of thousands of fans lined the River Seine as the Paris 2024 Olympics kicked off with a stunning opening ceremony.

Nearly 7,000 athletes have sailed down the French capital's famous waterway on 85 boats.

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And spectators were treated to a raucous party featuring fireworks, dancing and live music from some of the world's biggest stars, with Lady Gaga wowing the crowd by performing a French cabaret act.

The evening off with a brilliant video of the torch making its way to Paris.

National hero Zinedine Zidane raced along the streets of the capital, overcoming various amusing scenarios to deliver the precious flame.

The athletes then came down the river, with Greece leading the way as is customary.

NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo waved the flag of the Games' originators.

And they were followed swiftly by the Olympic Refugee team.

The countries then went in alphabetical order, led by Afghanistan.

And the boat parade was split up with entertainment, with Lady Gaga providing some music as she sang in French.

The American songstress received a rapturous round of applause with a sultry cabaret ensemble as she cavorted with dancers while wearing a sleek black dress completely with a fluffy pink scarf.

Before things kicked off, top names from the world of sport and entertainment gathered in Paris.

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Team GB icons Rebecca Adlington and Sir Chris Hoy were joined by US legend Michael Johnson outside the Eiffel Tower.

While there were appearances from pop stars including Ariana Grande, Pharell Williams and John Legend.

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And German tennis legend Boris Becker was in tow as well.

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