Olympic Properties

From the iconic Olympic rings to the flag, flame, torches and emblems seen at each edition of the Olympic Games, Olympism is conveyed by a variety of symbols – often referred to as "Olympic properties" – that give the Olympic Movement, and the Olympic brand, their unique identity.

Olympic symbol

The Olympic symbol, known throughout the world as the Olympic rings, is the visual representation of Olympism and the cornerstone of the Olympic brand.

Designed and publicly presented by Pierre de Coubertin in 1913, the Olympic rings remain a global ambassador of the Olympic Movement and its activities.​

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Olympic flag

The Olympic flag – featuring the iconic five interlocking rings on a white background – is the beacon of the Olympic Movement, and was created to mark its 20th anniversary in 1914.

First flown in an Olympic stadium at the 1920 Games in Antwerp, the flag stands for unity and symbolises the universality of Olympism, with the five rings representing the five continents, and at least one of the six colours appearing on the flag of every nation at that time.​

Olympic motto

On 20 July 2021, the Session of the International Olympic Committee approved a change in the Olympic motto that recognises the unifying power of sport and the importance of solidarity. The change adds the word "together" after an en dash to "Faster, Higher, Stronger". The new Olympic motto now reads: "Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together". The original motto in Latin "Citius, Altius, Fortius" was adopted in 1894 and inspired by Henri Didon, a Dominican priest and friend of Pierre de Coubertin.

It is a living asset of the Olympic brand that everyone can embrace.​

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Olympic anthem

First performed at the Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games Athens 1896, the Olympic anthem was composed by Spiros Samaras, to words by Kostas Palamas

The lyrics express the ideals of Olympism and its power to unite athletes in competition, with the anthem – officially adopted by the IOC in 1958 – forming part of the unique pageantry and identity of the Olympic Games.​

Olympic terminology​

The word "Olympic" has been used to identify the Olympic Games and the work of the IOC for more than 125 years.

To this day, this international and timeless word retains its unique meaning and power as the use of Olympic terminology – including "Olympic" and "Olympiad" – is protected in order to uphold the integrity of the Olympic brand.​

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Olympic flame

The lighting of the Olympic flame in Olympia is a highly symbolic moment that recalls the Ancient Greek roots of the Games, when a sacred fire burnt on the altar of Zeus, the king of the gods.

After being lit by the sun's rays, the flame is carried from Olympia to the host city, not only announcing the coming Olympic Games but also conveying a message of peace and friendship.​

Rio 2016 OG, Olympic Flame Lighting Ceremony, Olympia (GRE). Actress Katerina LEHOU, in the role of high priestess, lighting the Olympic torch with the parabolic mirror.​
PyeongChang 2018 Winter OG, Olympic Flame Lighting Ceremony, Olympia (GRE), Hera's Temple. The actress Katerina LEHOU, in the role of high priestess, lighting the Olympic torch with the vase containing the Olympic flame.​
Torino 2006 Winter OG, Olympic Flame Lighting Ceremony, Olympia (GRE). Actress Theodora SIARKOU, in the role of high priestess, holds a replica of an ancient pot containing the flame.​

Olympic emblems

Every National Olympic Committee (NOC) and every edition of the Olympic Games has its own Olympic emblem, which combines the Olympic rings with another distinctive element.

As well as giving each NOC and Games edition its own visual symbol and helping to promote the Olympic values, these emblems also form part of the Olympic brand, further enhancing its rich history and diversity.​

PyeongChang 2018 Winter OG, Curling, Women. Sweden NOC emblem on the team uniform.​

PyeongChang 2018 Winter OG, Curling, Women. Sweden NOC emblem on the team uniform.​

PyeongChang 2018 Winter OG emblem featured at Snowboard training.​

PyeongChang 2018 Winter OG emblem featured at Snowboard training.​

Rio 2016 OG, Equestrian / Eventing. The OG emblem in the start area.​

Rio 2016 OG, Equestrian / Eventing. The OG emblem in the start area.​

Rio 2016 OG, Rowing, double sculls Men. Great Britain NOC emblem on the team uniform. ​

Rio 2016 OG, Rowing, double sculls Men. Great Britain NOC emblem on the team uniform. ​