The ceremony for the lighting of the Olympic Flame for the Beijing Winter Games of 2022 was concluded on Monday at Ancient Olympia without the presence of audience, due to the protection measures against COVID-19.
The Olympic Flame was lit after noon by the sun's rays at the temple of Hera in Ancient Olympia.
"In these difficult times we are still experiencing, the Winter Olympic Games in Beijing will be an important moment to bring the people close to a spirit of peace, friendship and solidarity," stated International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach.
The President of the Hellenic Republic Katerina Sakellaropoulou was present at the ceremony for the lighting of the Olympic Flame at Ancient Olympia on Monday.
After the end of the ceremony, the Greek President stated: "the lighting of the Olympic Flame at the sacred area of Ancient Olympic fills us with awe and pride." She underlined that "the symbol of the spiritual light, the Olympic Flame, starting its voyage to the Winter Games in Beijing, carries the message of reconciliation between peoples, of peace and noble competition".
Finally, she thanked International Olympic Committee chief Thomas Bach for his strong support of the Olympic idea in order for the Olympic movement to contribute to the building of a better world through sports.