Mary and Frederik, Albert and Charlene, Willem-Alexander: just a few of the guests.
Today marks the official start of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. Traditionally, the royals are closely involved, and this year they will be again. On the eve of the major sporting event, French President Macron hosted a gala dinner at the Louvre, and a number of European dignitaries were spotted there.
Olympic Gala
There are few events that royal high society turns out en masse for. Weddings, coronations, funerals… and Olympic Galas, apparently. Last night, the Olympic Gala Dinner took place in the Louvre, hosted by the International Olympic Committee and the French President. The guest list included a large number of heads of state and royal guests, who were welcomed on the red carpet by the President of the Committee and his wife.
Royals on the carpet
First to arrive were Mary and Frederik. Mary matched the red carpet in her Max Mara jumpsuit, which she paired with Aquazzura sandals and a Prada clutch.
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Jumpsuits were apparently popular, because Mathilde of Belgium also appeared in a beautiful example. Her white jumpsuit with cape comes from fashion house Natan.
Grand Duchess Maria Teresa hit the carpet in a deep red halterneck dress by Maison Rabih Kayrouz, teamed with nude patent leather pumps by Prada.
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Queen Letizia and King Felipe of Spain were also present. Leti wore a haute couture dress by Christian Dior, with matching Dior handbag and sandals.
If there is one royal couple that feels closely connected to the Olympic Games, it is Albert and Charlene. Not only do they regularly appear in the stands, they have also both participated in the Games. The Monegasque couple could not be missed at the gala dinner. Charlene wore an outfit by Alexander McQueen, finished off with Christian Dior pumps and a Louis Vuitton bag.
Willem Alexander and Máxima
As an honorary member of the International Olympic Committee, Willem-Alexander was also present – albeit somewhat lonely. He had left Máxima at home for a while, but she will also be coming over to Paris sometime today to attend the Games, together with her two eldest daughters.
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On Friday evening, the royal couple, together with their daughters and Prime Minister Dick Schoof, will be present at the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games. The next day, a visit to the Olympic Village is on the agenda, where they will have the chance to meet the athletes and take a look behind the scenes. All in all, a friendly group that will enjoy all the sporting highlights together – and hopefully cheer our country to many gold medals!
Source: UFO No More, Royal House | Image: NL Beeld, Getty Images
