Paris Olympics 2024: Gagan Narang to be India's Chef-de-Mission while PV Sindhu and Sharath Kamal will be India's flagbearers

2012 Olympics Bronze medalist Gagan Narang has been named as the replacement of MC Mary Kom as the Chef-de-Mission of the Indian contingent at the Paris Olympics, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) announced on Monday. Furthermore, two-time Olympic medalist PV Sindhu and 13-time CWG medalist Sharath Kamal were named as the flagbearers of the India contingent at the Paris Olympics 2024.

Initially, MC Mary Kom, the 2012 Olympics bronze medalist was named as the Chef-de-Mission by the IOA. However, the former Indian boxer stepped down from the position citing personal reasons. That is why, IOA had to find a replacement for Kom for the prestigious position.

“I was looking for an Olympic medalist to lead our contingent and my young colleague is an apt replacement for Mary Kom,” said IOA president PT Usha.

What is the responsibility of the Chef-de-Mission?

As per Olympics.com, "Chef-de-Mission is the most important administrative position." They are tasked with looking after the athletes and their well-being. They are also the point of contact with the various organising committees and the sporting members of the contingent.

Read Also: Paris Olympics 2024: Full Schedule of Indian Athletes

Why the flagbearer's position is a prestigious one?

This will be a successive Olympic where two athletes will be the flagbearer of the Indian contingent. As a mark of gender equality, a male and female athlete will be leading the country’s delegation at the prestigious Opening Ceremony parade. The flagbearers will be proudly displaying the Indian flag during the opening ceremony.

When does the Paris Olympics start?

The Paris Olympics 2024 will start on July 26 and end on August 11