Phoenix performed a rousing “Lisztomania” to kickoff their set during the Olympics closing ceremony in Paris on Sunday.
The French band from Versailles appeared in the middle of the Stade de France, surrounded by the athletes and included the song “If I Ever Feel Better” and “Funky Squaredance” featuring VannDa. The performance featured several special guests, including fellow French legends Air, who joined Phoenix to deliver “Playground Love” together. There was also an appearance by DJ-producer Kavinsky, who performed “Nightcall” with singer Angèle. Ezra Koenig from Vampire Weekend also joined Phoenix for their collab “Tonight.” Phoenix’s set concluded with their buoyant hit “1901,” which had the crowd jumping and culminated in a flurry of confetti.
“We are infinitely happy to have had the chance to celebrate with all the athletes and the entire world at the closing of the Olympic Games in our beloved city of Paris,” Phoenix said in a statement following their performance. “It was a wonderful moment to have been invited to take the stage with our friends from France and around the world, honoring the French spirit and remaining true to our motto: Liberté, Égalité, Phoenix! We are thrilled to both pass the baton to the Paralympics athletes and to Los Angeles for the forthcoming 2028 games.”
The closing ceremony will also feature performances by Billie Eilish, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Snoop Dogg, who will help usher in the handover to LA28, when the summer Olympics head to L.A. from June 14 to July 30, 2028.
The Paris Olympics’ opening ceremony featured a performance by Lady Gaga, Gojira going viral, and Celine Dion’s long-awaited return to the stage.
