The Evolution of Olympic Logos
A Journey Through Cultural Styles
My love affair with the Olympics began when I was just 12 years old during the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary. As a proud Canadian, I was thrilled that the Games were being hosted in my country, and I remember watching with wide-eyed excitement as Elizabeth Manley skated her way to a silver medal in figure skating.
At that moment, I decided I wanted to be an Olympic figure skater. While that dream never came to fruition (because I never actually took up figure skating), it ignited a lifelong passion for the Olympics and the incredible stories of strength, resilience, joy, and love they bring.
Not surprisingly, one aspect of the Olympics that has always fascinated me is the design of the Olympic logos and how it is applied to everything from t-shirts and hats to signage, banners, and swag. The Olympic rings themselves have remained largely unchanged since their creation in 1913 by Pierre de Coubertin, symbolizing the union of the five inhabited continents and the meeting of athletes from around the world. However, each host city gets the unique opportunity to create its own brand for the Games, reflecting its culture, style, and essence.
A Reflection of Cultural Styles
Over the years, more than 50 Olympic logos have been designed, each showcasing the distinct cultural styles of the host cities. From the elegant simplicity of some designs to the vibrant complexity of others, these logos are a testament to the diversity and creativity of the world. And while I might not like all of them, I know how challenging it can be to design something of such great importance that will be seen around the world!
My Top 5 Favourite Olympic Logos
While there are many logos to admire, here are my top five favourites, each reflecting a unique cultural and stylistic approach.
1. Paris 2024
The Paris 2024 logo is a beautiful blend of elegance and modernity that totally aligns with my style. It combines a gold medal, the Olympic flame, and the Marianne, a symbol of the French Republic. This logo beautifully captures the identity and cultural pride of Paris.
3. Tokyo 1964
The Tokyo 1964 logo is a striking example of minimalist design. It features a bold red circle, representing the rising sun of Japan’s national flag, above the Olympic rings. This logo elegantly combines traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern design principles.
3. Sarajevo 1984
The Sarajevo 1984 logo is a striking design that combines cultural heritage with modern aesthetics.The stylized snowflake is designed with a bold, geometric pattern, reflecting traditional Bosnian embroidery. This logo beautifully captures the essence of Sarajevo, merging its rich cultural history with the spirit of the winter Olympics.
4. Mexico 1968
The Mexico 1968 logo is a vibrant and intricate design that reflects the rich cultural heritage of Mexico. It features the Olympic rings intertwined with indigenous patterns and the number 68, creating a dynamic and visually captivating logo.
5. Montreal 1976
The Montreal 1976 logo, designed by Georges Huel, is a simple and clever design. It combines the Olympic rings to form a stylized interpretation of the letter M, representing both Montreal and the medal podium. Despite its simplicity, every time I look at this logo, I see something new.
Looking back at these 5 logos, it’s easy to see the design aesthetic I gravitate towards!
The Olympic Museum Experience
Last year, I had the privilege of visiting the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Switzerland with my family, where I was able to see many of these logos up close and learn about their histories. The experience deepened my appreciation for the thought and creativity that go into each and every design.
My boys in front of Le Musée Olympique in Lausanne, Switzerland.
The Importance of Consistent Branding
The consistency of the Olympic rings paired with the diverse and culturally rich logos of each host city exemplifies the power of strong branding. As a branding expert, I am always inspired by how these logos manage to capture the essence of their cities while maintaining the timeless Olympic spirit. Which logo is your favourite?
With the Paris 2024 Olympics just around the corner, I look forward to seeing the city, athletes, and logo in action! Will you be watching? What's your favourite sport? Comment below and let me know!