'Anything could happen here': Chaos unfolds as athletes kicked off stage at closing ceremony

No one could put an end to athletes' celebrations at the closing ceremony. Not even Olympic organisers.

French indie rock band Phoenix were awarded the honour of marking the end of the 2024 Olympic Games, taking to the stage to play a medley of hits.

But in a bizarre turn of events, the ceremony was halted as pleas to return to the floor were ignored while athletes swarmed the stage.

IN PHOTOS: Jess Fox presented to 71,000 for special reason

READ MORE: Olympic medallist disqualified after 'ridiculous mistake' in keirin

READ MORE: Dramatic five-runner photo finish decides 100m hurdles gold

Following a lengthy light show and the parade of nations, hundreds of rogue athletes piled onto the stage to enjoy the sounds and talent of Phoenix up close.

As many climbed onto the multi-shaped stage, which was designed to represent the five continents and oceans of the world, security officials intervened and gestured for athletes to get down.

"Please get down from the stage. Dear athletes, please leave the stage. Thankyou very much," a voiceover echoed around State de France.

Some athletes complied with the instructions as others continued to swarm the stage and circle members of Phoenix.

"We've had a bit of a rebellion in the Olympic Stadium," Leila McKinnon said on Nine.

"I can see more athletes getting on the stage so anything could happen here."

Eddie Maguire added: "It's the right place for a revolution, no doubt about it."

Re-watch every moment, every medal of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 live and free on Channel 9 and 9Now. Plus, every event streaming ad free, live and on demand with 4K on Stan Sport. 

Unfazed by the incident unfolding, Phoenix began their set while athletes continued dancing their way back to the floor.

Australian pole vault great Steve Hooker revealed athletes had been invited to join the band in celebration on stage. However, it is unclear if the instruction was intended to see athletes surround the stage barriers.

"They've invited some of the athletes onto the stage to come and party with them," Hooker said.

"I don't think they were meant to be on the stage but certainly some of them are and they are going to have a good time."

"No one's telling them what to do. I'm here for it," McKinnon replied.

The stage was emptied within 10 minutes, leaving Phoenix, who were already four songs deep into their set, to ignite the energy in the stadium.

The band was followed by American rockers Red Hot Chili Peppers, who unveiled the flavour for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Billie Eilish followed before Snoop Dogg wrapped up his Olympic experience and was joined by Dr Dre as the American artists congregated in Long Beach in the states.