Olympic flags stadium

Olympic flags flutter in stadiums as symbols of peace and unity among nations during the Games.

About this subject

The Olympic flag, featuring five interlocking rings, represents the five inhabited continents and the spirit of fair competition. Created by Pierre de Coubertin in 1913, it was first hoisted at the Antwerp Games in 1920. The design includes blue, yellow, black, green, and red rings on a white background, incorporating at least one color from every national flag existing at the time. In stadiums, the flags are ceremonially raised during the opening ceremony and lowered at the closing, symbolizing the continuity of Olympic values. The official flag, with gold fringe, is treated with protocolary respect and often displayed alongside the flags of participating nations. Long-exposure photography captures the flag's movement in the wind, highlighting the dynamism of a global event that unites athletes from over 200 nations. Each edition of the Games has its own Olympic flag, which is passed from host city to host city, keeping alive the flame of competition and friendship among peoples. The use of flags in stadiums dates back to ancient Greece, when a sacred truce was declared during the games; today, the Olympic flags are among the most recognizable symbols of world sport.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do the five rings of the Olympic flag symbolize?

The five interlocking rings represent the five inhabited continents. The colors were chosen because at least one of them appears on every national flag at the time.

When was the Olympic flag first used?

It was first hoisted at the Antwerp Olympic Games in 1920, although it was designed by Pierre de Coubertin in 1913.

What is the protocol for the Olympic flag in stadiums?

The flag is raised during the opening ceremony, remains hoisted throughout the Games, and is lowered at the closing ceremony. Each new host city receives the official flag from the previous one.