The Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics were declared officially open by Russian president Vladimir Putin at a lavish ceremony last night in which International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach called for “goodwill, tolerance, excellence and peace”.
The showpiece at the Fisht Olympic Stadium began at 2014 local time, featured former world heavyweight champion boxer Nikolai Valuev and tennis star Maria Sharapova, and was preceded by a warm-up segment that included a performance by pop act t.A.T.u.
During the proceedings, Bach made a speech in which he thanked workers for their efforts in preparing Sochi for the Games, as well as the volunteers and residents of the Krasnodar regions.
He then delivered a message to the “political leaders of the world”, saying: “Thank you for supporting your athletes, they are the best ambassadors of your country.
“Please respect their Olympic message of goodwill, of tolerance, of excellence and of peace. Have the courage to address your disagreements in a peaceful, direct political dialogue and not on the backs of these athletes.”
Bach then handed over to Putin, who announced from the stands: “I declare open the Olympic Winter Games of Sochi.”
An early hiccup occurred when one of five rings brought together in mid-air to form the Olympic symbol failed to light properly.
But overall, those watching in the arena and around the world were treated to an impressive show full of spectacular visuals and elaborate choreography.
It was designed as a depiction of the history of Russia as seen through the dreams of a young girl named Lubov, meaning Love, and focused on the country’s past, present and future.
Entitled Dreams of Russia, the show incorporated historical figures, mythological images and Russian dance.
There was also the traditional Parade of Nations, in which athletes emerged from out of the floor in the centre of the stadium.
Team GB was led by flagbearer Jon Eley.