The origin of the Olympic simbol: more than just colors

Have you ever wondered about the origin of the Olympic logo? While most people think that the colors of the rings are linked to the individual continents, this is a common misconception. The history behind this iconic symbol is actually much more interesting.

The famous logo with the five interlocking rings was created by the founder of the modern Olympic Games, Pierre de Coubertin, in 1913 to represent unity and brotherhood among athletes from around the world. The rings represent the five inhabited continents (Africa, America, Asia, Europe, and Oceania), but there is no direct correspondence between the ring colors and the continents themselves.

The colors symbolize global inclusion and unity, celebrating diversity through sport. De Coubertin chose these colors (blue, yellow, black, green, and red) because every national flag in the world contains at least one of these colors. Thus, the Olympic logo symbolizes the universality of all participating nations.

The myth that assigns each color to a specific continent likely arose from the simplicity with which this interpretation can be understood and remembered. The truth is that De Coubertin wanted a symbol that spoke to all peoples, without distinction.

The 2024 Paris Olympics not only continue to convey these values of unity and brotherhood but also introduce an element of modernity and innovation with their logo. For the first time in history, the Olympic and Paralympic logos are the same, demonstrating that, regardless of physical abilities, all athletes share the same stage and competitive spirit.

The Paris 2024 logo represents the Olympic flame, the face of Marianne, and the gold medal. The flame symbolizes the energy and passion of the athletes, Marianne represents freedom and democracy, while the gold medal embodies sporting excellence. This design merges tradition and modernity, honoring the past while looking to the future.

Having a unified logo for the Olympics and Paralympics emphasizes the importance of bringing all athletes together under a single emblem, promoting the values of inclusion and respect. This choice perfectly reflects the spirit of the Games, which is not only about competition but also about sharing and celebrating diversity.

As a communication agency, Mediability is also involved in logo creation and brand identity, finding these examples both interesting and inspiring. Always attentive to the latest trends and curiosities related to major international events, we are committed to offering our clients the best possible consultancy!