Summer Games: Mascot symbolizes freedom, unity

Meet Olympic Phryge, the mascot of the Paris 2024 Olympics, inspired by the traditional small Phrygian hats (also known as liberty caps) worn throughout French history.

Chosen for its symbolic significance, both in design and name, Olympic Phryge embodies the values of freedom and represents the allegorical figures of the French Republic.

With its endearing design and evocative symbolism, Olympic Phryge captures the essence of liberty and embodies the spirit of the Olympic Games. Its distinctive Phrygian hat, adorned with the iconic cockade, pays homage to France’s rich cultural heritage and its enduring commitment to freedom and equality.

Its colors are blue, white and red — the colors of the French flag — and it has the golden Olympic logo blazoned across its chest.

The anthropomorphic Phrygian cap that is the mascot for the Paralympics wears a running blade on one of its legs. It is the first time since 1994 that a Paralympic mascot has displayed a visible disability.

But Olympic Phryge is more than a mascot; it is a powerful symbol of unity and inclusivity, inviting people from all walks of life to come together and celebrate the Olympic spirit. Whether greeting visitors at Olympic venues or appearing in promotional materials and merchandise, Olympic Phryge serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for athletes and spectators alike.

The Phryge’s motto is “Alone we go faster, but together we go further.”

The selection of Olympic Phryge as the official mascot of the Paris 2024 Olympics reflects a desire to honor tradition while embracing modernity, as well as a commitment to promoting the values of freedom, equality and solidarity. Through its presence and symbolism, Olympic Phryge will play a vital role in fostering a sense of pride and unity among athletes, fans and spectators, leaving a lasting legacy that extends far beyond the Games themselves.

Mascots have long been an important part of the Olympic experience. Beyond their role as playful icons, they help to engage audiences, especially younger fans, by creating a sense of connection between spectators and the host city. They help to promote tourism, cultural exchange and international goodwill.

Moreover, mascots often promote the Olympic Games and its values to a global audience. Through their presence in marketing campaigns, merchandise and media coverage, mascots generate excitement and anticipation leading up to the games, driving ticket sales, sponsorship deals and media coverage. Their iconic status makes them valuable symbols to promote the Olympic brand and its message of peace, friendship and solidarity.

Past Olympic mascots have become a part of the history. From the lovable bear of the 1980 Moscow Olympics to the playful panda of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, each mascot has left a mark on the collective memory of fans around the world. They play a vital role in shaping the Olympic spirit.

Olympic Phryge stands ready to carry on the proud tradition of Olympic mascots, inspiring athletes and spectators alike with its message of freedom, unity and hope.