A Winter Olympics that was farcical, disturbing and often exceptional

Flag bearers at the closing ceremony of a Winter Games that was like no other. Photograph: Xinhua/Shutterstock

At the end of a Winter Olympics like no other, moments before a furious barrage of fireworks tattooed the Beijing skyline, the German president of the International Olympic Committee gave an extraordinarily upbeat assessment of these Games.

“The Olympic spirit could only shine so brightly because the Chinese people set the stage in such an excellent way – and in a safe way,” Thomas Bach said. “The Olympic villages were outstanding. The venues – magnificent. The organisation – extraordinary. On behalf of the best winter sport athletes of the world, I say: Thank you, our Chinese friends!”