BBC Olympics viewers baffled as Fred Sirieix leads closing ceremony coverage: 'Added nothing!'

The Paris Olympic Games 2024 ended with the exciting closing ceremony on Sunday, and during the celebration, First Dates celebrity Fred Sirieix was heavily involved in the event's broadcasting.

French-born Sirieix has been seen at the games to support his daughter Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix, who competed for Team GB and won a bronze medal in diving. Some people were confused as to why he was prominently featured in the closing ceremony coverage and questioned if he was the most suitable commentator for the event.

The BBC program started by showing the best moments from the previous 16 days. Clare Balding, who is 53 years old, introduced the coverage and mentioned that Sirieix, who is 52, was also part of the presenting team.

"I'm hanging out with Fred Sirieix, Laura Kenny and Chris Hoy," she said.

Kenny, who is 32 years old, used to compete for Team GB as a cyclist on both the track and road. Hoy, who is 48, has a background in track cycling and has also raced as a driver. Despite Sirieix's connection to an Olympian through his daughter, some people were puzzled by his role as the face of the coverage, as he is not an Olympian himself.

"I am extremely proud, the entire nation is ecstatic," Sirieix exclaimed when Balding inquired about his feelings towards France. He continued: "There is a buzz about the successful organization and warm hospitality that everyone is thrilled about."

"And it's incredible how France was able to display Paris in all its splendor and charm. The unique French way of living was truly on display." Afterwards, Sirieix went on to describe a compilation of Paris' memorable hosting moments and France's achievements during the games.

Fred Sirieix received criticism from BBC viewers for being a prominent figure in the coverage of the closing ceremony.

Following a review of France's successful performance, he shared his thoughts in a pre-recorded video. He stated, "The Olympics were truly special and mirrored the elegance of Paris."

"What a perfect setting for the most amazing event in the world. Team France has won the highest number of medals in more than a century. The people of France are filled with pride and admiration for their Olympic athletes."

During the initial 20 minutes of the broadcast, Sirieix's commentary and video clips took center stage, leaving many viewers puzzled. Many people took to social media platforms to express their confusion and inquire about the chef's extensive role in the coverage.

Someone posed the question: "Since when has Fred been considered an authority on the Olympics? #BBCOlympics".

Another person expressed feeling like Fred Serieix was unnecessary leading up to the end of the Olympic games. They did express admiration for Laura Kenny and Chris Hoy, though. #Olympics #Paris2024 #BBCOlympics #ClosingCeremony

One person wondered: "Why is Fred Sirieix a commentator? Is he just the French representative? #BBCOlympics."

Fred Sirieix played a major role in the Olympics' closing event.

"I think Fred Sirieix must be amazed that he is getting paid for this fun #BBCOlympics," someone else commented.

"Unfortunately, besides being French and Andrea's father, Fred Siriex has made no significant contribution to the #BBCOlympics broadcast. #Olympics #Paris2024 #ClosingCeremony," another person countered.

Someone commented that while they know Fred's daughter competed in the Olympics, they questioned if he was really the most suitable pundit for the final panel. #BBCOlympics

On the other hand, some people enjoyed watching Siriex participate, with one person commenting: "I really liked reading Fred Sirieix's thoughts on the #Olympics in Paris. He has been a delight to watch during the games." (sic)

Siriex was overcome with emotion as he watched his daughter compete for Team GB last week. Sharing the platform with fellow diver Lois Toulson, Spendolini-Sirieix helped secure third place in the women's synchronised 10m platform event.

Both divers cried tears of joy as they were awarded their medals and when their scores were officially announced.

Numerous BBC Olympics spectators were puzzled as to why Fred Sirieix was given such a prominent role in the closing ceremony.

Shortly after, when they became part of the BBC's reporting group, which also included Sirieix as a proud father, the tears kept coming.

Spendolini-Sirieix shared with BBC viewers while wiping away tears: "It's hard to put into words how we're feeling right now. We're overjoyed. We put in so much effort for this moment."

Afterwards, Sirieix gently placed his hand on Andrea's back. His colleague from BBC then requested for his input when she noticed "tears in your eyes".

Sirieix was emotional as he expressed his thoughts, stating: "Wow, what an intense competition! The journey with you ladies is always full of ups and downs, truly keeping me on my toes. But that final dive... that final dive was truly impressive... it was extraordinary."