Olympic mascots have been captivating fans around the world since Shuss debuted at the 1968 Winter Olympics in Grenoble. Over 50 years later and 500 kilometers to the north, the 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics will be represented by a couple of cute red hats -- the Phryges. (Pronounced "FREE-jes".)
The mascots, unveiled in November, are personified Phrygian caps -- soft, conical caps with the top bent forward.
"We chose the Phrygian cap because it's a very strong symbol for the French Republic," said Paris 2024 President Tony Estanguet when the mascots were revealed. "For French people, it's a very well-known object that is a symbol of freedom, an object that will represent mascots all across the world. The fact that the Paralympics mascot has a visible disability also sends a strong message: to promote inclusion."
The Phryges are on "a mission of revolution through sport," according to Estanguet. "The aim is to show that sport can change everything in society. The objective is to show that sport and its values can do great things. It's about fraternity, solidarity and it helps society grow."
Olympic Phryge and Paralympic Phryge are just two individuals in a large family of Phryges that, as the narrative goes, have existed for thousands of years and were present during key events in French history. Olympic Phryge "is a tactician with a calculating, mathematical brain. Its methodical mind and alluring charm are sure to inspire people to get involved with sport." Paralympic Phryge, identifiable by his prosthesis and racing blade, "is spontaneous and full of energy and enthusiasm."
The motto of Olympic Phryge? "Alone we go faster, but together we go further."
Bing Dwen Dwen emerged from the Beijing Olympics as a star. The stage is set for the Phryges.
