Source:
https://scmp.com/news/world/article/1423030/sochi-olympics-kick-grand-opening
World

Sochi Winter Olympics begin with Putin trying to refute critics

Opening ceremony launches event amid security concerns and controversy over gay rights

Fireworks light up the sky during the opening ceremony of the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi. Photo: AP

Russia yesterday launched the opening ceremony for one of the most controversial Winter Olympics in history, seeking to convince a sceptical world that the project spearheaded by President Vladimir Putin would be a success.

After a build-up dogged by controversies over gay rights, construction delays and security concerns, the 40,000 capacity Fisht stadium on the Black Sea in Sochi burst into cheers for the start of the two-and-a-half hour ceremony.