Paris, May 21 – ZEUS, the striking metallic horse that became a symbol of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games opening ceremony, is making a grand return to the French capital. This impressive equine sculpture will be on display at the foot of the Eiffel Tower from June 19 to 21, 2026, coinciding with the Paris Eiffel Jumping event.
ZEUS: An Olympic Icon Returns to Paris
ZEUS, an 1.80-meter-tall steel horse, first garnered global attention during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where it gracefully glided down the Seine on a 14-meter trimaran. Designed by Atelier Blam in Nantes, the creation took an entire year to complete and was witnessed by an estimated 24 million television viewers worldwide.
Its return to Paris for the Paris Eiffel Jumping event places it in a fitting equestrian setting. The sculpture will be located in the event’s Village, situated on the Champ-de-Mars, with the iconic Eiffel Tower as its backdrop.
Free Access for All Visitors
One of the most significant aspects of ZEUS’s return is its accessibility. The Village of the Paris Eiffel Jumping event will be open to the public free of charge. This means that anyone can visit and admire ZEUS up close, regardless of whether they have tickets for the show jumping competitions.
Visitors will have the opportunity to appreciate the intricate details of the sculpture, a testament to the impressive craftsmanship of Atelier Blam. The nautical structure that supported ZEUS during the Olympic ceremony was designed by MMProcess in Quiberon.
Event Details and Accessibility
- Event: Paris Eiffel Jumping
- Dates: June 19 to June 21, 2026
- Location: Eiffel Tower, Paris (75007)
- ZEUS Exhibition: Free access within the Paris Eiffel Jumping Village
- Equestrian Competitions: Paid tickets required for entry to the show jumping events
The Paris Eiffel Jumping is an event entirely dedicated to equestrian sports, offering a unique blend of high-level competition and public engagement. ZEUS’s presence is expected to be a major draw, attracting both equestrian enthusiasts and those who simply wish to reconnect with an unforgettable symbol of the recent Olympic Games.
The Impact of ZEUS’s Olympic Debut
ZEUS’s initial appearance during the Olympic opening ceremony was a highlight, contributing to the spectacle and grandeur of the event. Its artistic and original design, combined with its prominent role in the Seine parade, cemented its place in the collective memory of the Games. Its return underscores the city’s commitment to public art and its desire to share significant cultural artifacts with a broad audience.
The decision to make the exhibition of ZEUS freely accessible aligns with the spirit of the Olympic Games, which aims to bring people together and celebrate human achievement. By placing it in a public space, the organizers hope to foster a sense of community and allow more individuals to experience the artistry behind this remarkable creation.
This event also serves as a reminder of the successful hosting of the Paris 2024 Olympics and the lasting legacy it leaves on the city’s cultural landscape. ZEUS, the metallic horse, continues to be a powerful symbol of innovation, artistry, and the enduring spirit of Paris.
Source: jds.fr
