Thousands of spectators faced long queues and ticketing problems as they arrived for the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics along the River Seine on Friday.

Many gates opened an hour late and at least one opened two hours late because staff had not been delivered scanners enabling them to check tickets.

"The police have been amazing, but the organisation sucks," said Michael Ohoven, 48, a German film producer, who paid 2,700 euros ($2,930) per ticket for him and his wife.