Biniam Girmay confirmed as Eritrea flag bearer for Paris Olympic opening ceremony but other cyclists stay away

Biniam Girmay will be the flag bearer for Eritrea at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games on Friday but most of the contenders for the cycling medals will be absent from the spectacular four-hour parade down the river Seine.

Race schedules for the 16 days of competition mean that many riders have still to arrive in Paris or are prioritising rest and preparation rather than joining the 6,500 athletes for the opening ceremony.