After years of preparation and months of controversy, the Rio Olympics finally had the world’s attention for all the right reasons – an opening ceremony that shared the colour and history of Brazilian culture with the world. (All images by Getty.)
Anna Meares of Australia carries the flag during the Opening Ceremony.
Australian athletes greet the Rio crowds at Maracana Stadium.
Members of the Australia team enter the stadium during the Opening Ceremony of the Rio Games.
Former Brazilian athlete Vanderlei Cordeiro lights the Olympic cauldron.
The Olympic cauldron is lifted into place to loud cheers.
A fireworks display lights up the Rio sky.
Flag bearer Olivia Borlee of Belgium leads her team into the stadium.
The Spanish team is introduced to the crowds.
Members of the Spanish team wave to the cameras.
A dancer performs A Simple Idea that Helps A Lot in Rio.
Performers dance at the Geometrization: Arrival of The Arabs and the Orient during the Opening Ceremony of the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.
Artists recognise the indigenous people of Brazil during the opening ceremony.
Dancers perform during the Opening Ceremony.
Members of the Switzerland team enter the stadium.
A performer dances before the start of the Opening Ceremony of the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.
Pita Nikolas Aufatofua of Tonga carries the flag.
The British team arrives to a massive cheer.
Another colourful scene from the launch of the Games.
The Canadian team arrives, flanked by officials and performers.
One of the sculptural features of the Opening Ceremony.
One of the great initiatives of the Rio Games, the Refugee Team is welcomed into the stadium.
Inside the Maracana Stadium during the Opening Ceremony.
Performers warm up the Olympics crowd with a glittering opening dance in Rio.
Supermodel Gisele Bundchen walks as The Girl From Ipanema during the Bossa segment during the Opening Ceremony.
Gisele Bundchen during her appearance in Rio.
Dancers perform during the Metropolis segment of the Opening Ceremony.
High rise drama. Take to the skies to acknowledge the big cities of Brazil.