How well do you know the Olympic mascots?
The Olympics are on the horizon, learn about the history of the Olympic mascots and why they have become so iconic. Take your marks, get set and take on the ultimate Olympic mascot quiz!
Find out more about the history of the Olympic mascots
What are Olympic mascots?
Olympic mascots are the ambassadors of the Olympic and Paralympic games, they are used to represent a group of people using a common public identity. An example of this in the Olympics is 'Vinicius' the 2016 mascot for Rio which was a merge of different Brazilian animals to represent the diversity of Brazilian culture and it's people. America also did something similar in the 1984 Olympics by using an Eagle with a stars and stripes attire as an eagle is symbolic of the strength and freedom of America.
What was the first Olympic mascot?
The first Olympic mascot, also known as 'Schuss' was designed ahead of the 1968 Winter Olympics being held in Grenoble. The designer, 'Aline Lafargue' was only given a night to submit his idea and chose to have a man on skis, with the Olympic rings on the top of his head as his design. The name 'Schuss' is also a reference to a straight downhill run on skis which is exactly what the mascot is doing in his design.
What was the last Summer Olympic mascots?
The Summer Olympics in 2024 Paris, had the mascots named Olympic Phryge and Paralympic Phryge. They are based on the traditional small Phrygian hats that have symbolised freedom throughout French history. The motto of the Olympic Phryge and Paralympic Phryge is "Alone we go faster, but together we go further." Showing that people will always improve working together rather than apart.
What's happening at the Winter Olympics 2026?
The Winter Olympics is taking place in Milano Cortina, Italy, in 2026 with lots of exciting sports. Can you reach for gold in our Winter Olympics quiz?
Find more quizzes about the Olympics on Blue Peter
Discover even more Olympic sport quizzes, activities, makes and bakes in the CBBC Olympic sports collection.
How to earn your Blue Peter Sport badge
If you've felt inspired by something you've seen here, or when you watch the Winter Olympics, why not try having a go at a winter sport and telling us all about how you got on? You could earn yourself a Blue Peter Sport badge.
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