Thomas Bach, president of the International Olympic Committee, said the Paris Games had been “sensational”.

In his closing speech, he praised athletes for their “simply amazing” performances, saying they showed “what greatness we humans are capable of”.

He continued: “During all this time, you lived peacefully together under one roof in the Olympic Village. You embraced each other. You respected each other, even if your countries are divided by war and conflict. You created a culture of peace.

This inspired all of us and billions of people around the globe. Thank you for making us dream. Thank you for making us believe in a better world for everyone”.