The torch relay ahead of the Paris Olympics reached the French capital for the first time on Sunday, with organisers hoping to build enthusiasm for the Games among the city's sceptical residents. The flame was first glimpsed during the traditional military parade held every year on Bastille Day and then began its tour around the city from the Champs-Elysees.

After disembarking in Marseille from Olympia,Greece this Wednesday, 8 May, the Olympic flame will travel throughout France, including overseas territories, for 80 days until arriving in Paris for the opening ceremony of the Games on 26 July.

Since the creation of the modern Games in 1896, the Olympic flame, which will arrive in Marseille aboard the Belem sailboat next Wednesday, has experienced several chaotic and bizarre episodes, Agence France-Presse reports. 

Next month, Marseille is set to witness a monumental event as the Olympic torch arrives from Greece. On Friday, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin announced that approximately 6,000 police officers will be deployed to ensure the utmost security during this historic occasion.

Despite her frail shoulder, 102-year-old Melanie Berger-Volle will carry the Olympic torch as high as she can, promoting the values of friendship between peoples that she championed during her time in the French Resistance during the Second World War.

The Tunisian National Olympic Committee (TNOC) has applauded the country's baseball and softball federation for developing the sport.