The National Museum of Sport in Nice has just enriched its collection with a historical symbol of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games: the underwater Olympic torch.
Charles Ange Ginésy, President of the Alpes-Maritimes Department, officially handed over this torch, along with the diving suit of Alice Modolo, the 2023 world vice-champion in freediving, during a ceremony attended by numerous sports personalities.
On June 18, 2024, the Olympic flame crossed the Alpes-Maritimes, a unique moment that left a lasting impression. The torch, designed to withstand immersion in the Mediterranean Sea, was lit underwater thanks to local innovation. This unprecedented device was developed by Joseph Strazzanti. He is the head of the sail plan and sea device at the Alpes-Maritimes Departmental Council. He relied on a collaboration with students from the Lycée des Eucalyptus in Nice. It represents a real technical breakthrough that required many months of work.
Marie Grasse, General Director of the National Museum of Sport, highlighted the significance of this event. “The image of this torch lit underwater will go down in history,” she explained. “This technological feat accomplished by the Department allows us to experience a moment that will mark the history of sport.”
A legacy for the territory
The torch and Alice Modolo’s suit are now on display at the National Museum of Sport. A local symbol adding a Maralpinesque page to the Olympic history. Alice Modolo, who took on this challenge as the torchbearer, shared her emotion. “This day marked my life! Thanks to the Department, I was able to represent my sport. The images of this achievement were broadcast across the country.”
Charles Ange Ginésy expressed the Department’s pride in this unique contribution: “June 18, 2024, has made our department part of history! This underwater torch symbolizes the boldness and passion that honor our sports heritage and the values of Olympism.”
This event immortalizes the passing of the flame in the region and invites the public to relive this memorable moment by visiting the museum. A beautiful object that attests to the Olympic spirit, which will remain rooted in the heritage of Nice and the Alpes-Maritimes.
