British Prime Minister Keir Starmer dismissed the interest surrounding a viral image of him at the Paris Olympic Games opening ceremony, where he was the only dignitary not wearing a protective poncho during heavy rain. The image showed Starmer bare-headed, while other VIPs donned plastic ponchos to shield themselves from the downpour that affected the ceremony on the River Seine.
The photo quickly spread on social media, with many users highlighting it as a classic display of the British stiff upper lip, a cultural stereotype of enduring unpleasant weather without complaint. The sight of Starmer standing in the rain without a poncho resonated with many, given Britain’s well-known rainy climate.
Keir Starmer Dismisses Buzz Over Poncho-Free Appearance at Rainy Paris Olympics
In an interview with French channel LCI, Starmer emphasized that the rain did not diminish the excitement of the opening ceremony, which he described as “spectacular” and “fantastic.” He praised the event’s creative use of the River Seine and the city of Paris, showing his enthusiasm for the celebration despite the adverse weather.
Starmer’s appearance at the ceremony marked his first official visit to Paris as Prime Minister, following his recent landslide victory for the Labour Party, which ended 14 years of Conservative rule. Social media reactions included comments such as “Nothing more British than absolutely refusing to wear one of those plastic poncho things,” reflecting public amusement at his decision.
The rain has played a notable role in British political symbolism recently. Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak was ridiculed for giving an election address in the rain without a coat or umbrella. In contrast, while Starmer opted out of the poncho, he was seen wearing a Team GB rain-proof jacket and using its hood, underscoring the Labour Party’s message on X about the importance of preparation.
