FAQ
TOP 5
- How can I work for the International Olympic Committee?
A link entitled "Jobs", at the bottom of our website pages, leads to the section devoted exclusively to jobs available at the International Olympic Committee. Any interested candidate will be able to submit their application.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- How are the host cities of the Olympic Games chosen?
After a detailed evaluation of the candidate cities, the International Olympic Committee Session awards a city the right to organise an edition of the Olympic Games or the Olympic Winter Games in its country.
- Learn more
- Factsheet: Host City Election Facts and Figures
- Olympic Charter: Chapter 5, Rule 34, p. 72-74
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Can I use the Olympic Rings?
The Olympic rings are the exclusive property of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The Olympic rings are protected around the world in the name of the IOC by trademarks or national legislations and cannot be used without the IOC's prior written consent.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What is the meaning of the Olympic Rings?
The Olympic symbol consists of five interlaced rings of equal dimensions, used alone, in one or in five different colours, which are, from left to right, blue, yellow, black, green and red. The Olympic symbol (the Olympic rings) expresses the activity of the Olympic Movement and represents the union of the five continents and the meeting of athletes from throughout the world at the Olympic Games.
But watch out! It is wrong, therefore, to say that each of the colours corresponds to a certain continent!
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Do you have the complete results of the competitions that took place in Beijing in 2008?
This information is published by the Beijing Games Organising Committee (BOCOG) in the Official Report between one and two years after the Games.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.Olympic Games
Being part
- How to become a torch bearer for next winter or summer Olympic Games?
The organisation of the Torch Relay is under the responsibility of the respective Organising Committee for the Olympic Games. For the upcoming Games please refer to:
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- How can I be a volunteer at the Olympic Games?
The volunteer programme is managed by the respective Organising Committees:
- 2010 Olympic Games in Vancouver
- 2012 Olympic Games in London
- 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi
- The Organising Committees for the Olympic Games (OCOGs)
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- How is the ticketing, accommodation and access organised for the next Olympic Games?
One of the roles of the Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (OCOGs) is to provide for the Games logistics. Ticketing, accommodation and access are therefore their responsibility. Anyone wanting to attend the Olympic Games can thus contact the Organising Committee concerned for any logistical questions of this nature.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.Organisation
- What are the technical responsibilities of the International Sport Federations (IFs) at the Olympic Games?
The International Sports Federations' technical responsibilities during the Games are stipulated in the Olympic Charter:
- Olympic Charter: Chapter 5, Rule 47 and its Bye-law, p. 91-96
- The IFs
- Roles and responsibilities during the Olympic Games
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Who finances the organisation of the Olympic Games?
The OCOGs' budgets are funded by the sales of broadcast rights (TV, radio and new media), international and national sponsorships and the sale of tickets and licensed products. The International Olympic Committee directly provides around a considerable amount to organising committees from the sales of broadcast rights and international sponsorship.
In recent years, OCOG budgets for running the Games have been balanced or have generated a small surplus. This surplus is reinvested in the host nation's sporting future.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What sports are on the programme of the forthcoming Games?
You can find the IOC's rule on the programme of the Olympic Games in the Olympic Charter: Chapter 5, Rule 46 and its Bye-law, p. 86-91
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- How do the athletes live during the Olympic Games?
During the Olympic fortnight, the athletes live in the Olympic Village. What is the advantage of these villages? Here, the athletes find all the necessary commodities, shops, post offices, cinemas, cultural centres and, of course, restaurants. Food requirements are enormous. The menus are varied in order to correspond to the food habits of athletes from five continents.
The Village has high security and only people with special accreditations have access.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Who organises the Olympic Games?
The organisation of the Olympic Games is entrusted by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to the National Olympic Committee (NOC) of the country of the host city, as well as to the host city itself. The NOC forms, for that purpose, an Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (OCOG) which, from the time it is constituted, communicates directly with the IOC, from which it receives instructions.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Who organises the Paralympic Games?
The Paralympic Games are organised by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), which is one of the partners of the Olympic Movement.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What is the role of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in the organisation of the Olympic Games?
The organisation of the Games consists of a partnership between the IOC and the Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (OCOG). The Games are the exclusive property of the IOC, which has the last word on any question related to them. The IOC plays a supervisory and support role; in other words, it controls the organisation of the Games, ensures they run successfully, and checks that the principles and rules of the Olympic Charter are observed.
- Learn more
- The OCOGs
- Who belongs to the Olympic Movement?
- Olympic Charter: Chapter 5, Rule 36, p. 75 and 76
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What is the difference between the Olympic Games (OG) and the Youth Olympic Games (YOG)?
The YOG are for athletes aged 14 to 18. The summer edition takes place in the year of the winter OG, and the winter edition in the year of the summer OG. In 2010: 1st summer YOG in Singapore, and winter OG in Vancouver.
In Singapore, there will be almost 3,600 young athletes present, whereas the Athens OG in 2004 brought together more than 10,600 athletes.
The summer and winter YOG will last 12 and 10 days respectively, while the OG can last up to 16 days.
The sports programme of the 1st summer YOG is identical to that of the OG in London in 2012. However, the events have been adapted to suit the age and interest of the young athletes.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.Results
- Do you have the complete results of the competitions that took place in Beijing in 2008?
This information is published by the Beijing Games Organising Committee (BOCOG) in the Official Report between one and two years after the Games.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Where can I find the results of an Olympic Games medallist?
To find the olympic results of an athlete, you can either do a name search or consult the complete results database, using the Olympic medals search facility, on the Athletes' section at the following address:
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.History
- What is the origin of the Olympic Games?
The Olympic Games as we know them today have a long history, which goes back to ancient times. Everything started in the Peloponnese, in Greece, some 3,000 years ago.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Why do the Games of the Olympiad take place every four years?
To respect the ancient origins of the Games. At that time, sports competitions were organised in Olympia and were named after their location, i.e. Olympic Games. These Games were held at the same place every four years. This four-year period acquired the name Olympiad, and was used as a date system: time was counted in Olympiads, rather than years.
In 1894, Pierre de Coubertin launched his project to restore the Olympic Games, and in 1896 the first modern Olympic Games took place in Athens.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.Ceremonies and procedures
- What happens in the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the Olympic Games?
A party atmosphere is a feature of the Olympic Games. Each Olympic Games has an opening ceremony during which the sports stadium is filled with music, singing, dancing and fireworks. A closing ceremony in the same spirit takes place on the last day of the Games. The opening and closing ceremonies are an invitation to discover the culture of the country hosting the Games.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Why do the athletes take an oath at the Olympic Games?
The athlete taking the oath promises, in the name of all the other competitors, to respect the rules and participate in the competitions in a spirit of sportsmanship.
The oath has been part of the Opening Ceremony since the Games of the Olympiad in Antwerp in 1920. Its text was modified at the 2000 Sydney Games and now includes a phrase confirming the will of the athlete to avoid doping. Since 1972, a referee has made the same undertaking on behalf of all the judges and officials.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.Election of an Olympic Games Host City
- How are the host cities of the Olympic Games chosen?
After a detailed evaluation of the candidate cities, the International Olympic Committee Session awards a city the right to organise an edition of the Olympic Games or the Olympic Winter Games in its country.
- Learn more
- Factsheet: Host City Election Facts and Figures
- Olympic Charter: Chapter 5, Rule 34, p. 72-74
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What are the stages of the procedure to elect a host city of the Olympic Games?
The procedure leading to the election of the Host City of the Olympic Games is governed by the Olympic Charter: Chapter 5, Rule 34, p. 72.
Since December 1999, the procedure used has consisted of two phases:
Phase 1: APPLICANT cities
The applicant cities have to answer a questionnaire covering various themes.
After a group of experts has studied their answers, the IOC Executive Board decides which applicant cities will be accepted as candidate cities. These cities can then continue with the procedure and move on to the actual candidature phase.
Phase 2: CANDIDATE Cities
The candidate cities have several months in which to submit a file in response to a second IOC questionnaire.
Evaluation Commission
In line with the IOC reforms of 1999, an Evaluation Commission is given the job of analysing the files submitted by the candidate cities and making inspection visits to the cities (four days per city). The Commission then produces a report for the IOC members, to enable them to judge the ability of the each city to host the Games.
This report is made public no later than one month before the start of the IOC Session, i.e. the general assembly of IOC members, one of whose roles is to elect the host cities of the Olympic Games (only the active members vote).
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What conditions must a city fulfil to become a candidate to host the Olympic Games?
Cities wishing to organise an edition of the Olympic Summer or Winter Games must:
- Submit their request via their National Olympic Committee (NOC). They then become applicant cities.
- Answer a first IOC questionnaire for applicant cities.
- Be selected as candidate cities based on their answers to the questionnaire.
- Answer a second questionnaire for candidate cities, and submit a candidature file.
- Host the Evaluation Commission, which makes a four-day visit to each candidate city.
- Present their candidature to the IOC Session, i.e. the general assembly of IOC members, which has the power to elect the host cities of the Olympic Games.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Who evaluates the candidature files?
In line with the IOC reforms of 1999, an Evaluation Commission is given the job of analysing the files submitted by the candidate cities and making inspection visits to the cities (four days per city). The Commission then produces a report for the IOC members, to enable them to judge the ability of the each city to host the Games.
This report is made public no later than one month before the start of the IOC Session, i.e. the general assembly of IOC members, one of whose roles is to elect the host cities of the Olympic Games (only the active members vote).
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Who chooses the host cities of future Olympic Games?
The IOC members meeting in Session choose each host city. The choice of host city of the Olympic Games is one of the powers of the Session, which is the general assembly of the IOC members.
The host city is elected by a majority of those voting, and each active member has one vote. Members who are nationals of the countries which have a candidate city taking part in the election must refrain from voting for as long as their city is in contention.
IOC honorary and honour members, and any members suspended, are not allowed to vote. If no city obtains a majority in the first round, the candidate city with the least votes is eliminated, and another vote taken. The results are made known after each round of voting.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What were the results of previous elections?
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.Symbols and emblems
- Is it possible to obtain an olympic flag?
The olympic flag is to be used within the Olympic Games ceremonies only and may therefore not be purchased.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Can I use the Olympic Rings?
The Olympic rings are the exclusive property of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The Olympic rings are protected around the world in the name of the IOC by trademarks or national legislations and cannot be used without the IOC's prior written consent.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What is the meaning of the Olympic Rings?
The Olympic symbol consists of five interlaced rings of equal dimensions, used alone, in one or in five different colours, which are, from left to right, blue, yellow, black, green and red. The Olympic symbol (the Olympic rings) expresses the activity of the Olympic Movement and represents the union of the five continents and the meeting of athletes from throughout the world at the Olympic Games.
But watch out! It is wrong, therefore, to say that each of the colours corresponds to a certain continent!
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Who wrote the Olympic Anthem?
The music of the Olympic anthem was composed by Spiros Samara, based on the words of Kostas Palama, for the Games of the I Olympiad in Athens in 1896. It was adopted by the International Olympic Committee as its official anthem in 1958 at the Tokyo Session.
Concerning the use of the Olympic anthem:
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What is the Olympic Oath?
The Olympic Oath is one of the rituals of the Olympic Games. It is taken by an athlete from the host country, on behalf of all the athletes.
"In the name of all the competitors I promise that we shall take part in these Olympic Games, respecting and abiding by the rules which govern them, committing ourselves to a sport without doping and without drugs, in the true spirit of sportsmanship, for the glory of sport and the honour of our teams".
The first Athletes' Oath was taken at the Olympic Games in Antwerp in 1920 by Victor Boin, a Belgian fencer.
Since 1972, a referee has taken an oath on behalf of all the referees and officials.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What is the Olympic Motto?
The Olympic motto is made up of three Latin words :
Citius -Altius - Fortius. These words mean Faster - Higher - Stronger.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Why a torch relay?
In recollection of the origins of the Olympic Games, the flame is lit in Olympia, Greece, some months before the opening of the Games. It is than carried by relay from Olympia to the host city of the Games.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.Sports and rules
- Who to contact for any questions concerning the rules related to the practice of an Olympic sport?
Due to the role of the International Sport Federations (IFs) to assume the responsibility for the technical control and direction of their sports at the Olympic Games (cf. Olympic charter, chapter 3, rule 27, 1.6, p. 58) any questions or suggestions should be sent directly to the IFs.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What measures are taken against doping at the Olympic Games?
You will find the rule established by the International Olympic Committee on the issue of doping in the Olympic Charter: Chapter 5, Rule 44, p. 83.
Since 1967, the International Olympic Committee Medical Commission has been fighting against doping.
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) was created in 1999, following the World Conference on Doping in Sport, organised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). This independent agency's mission is to promote and coordinate, on an international level, the fight against doping in all its forms.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- With what conditions must a sport comply to be included in the programme of the Olympic Games?
You will find the Rules established by the International Olympic Committee for the inclusion of a sport on the programme of the Olympic Games, in the Olympic Charter.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What is the role of the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS)?
“Any dispute arising on the occasion of, or in connection with, the Olympic Games shall be submitted exclusively to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, in accordance with the Code of Sports-Related Arbitration.” Olympic Charter, Rule 59, p.106
The CAS is an independent institution providing international sport with an organisation competent to rule on any legal disputes linked to sport.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What sports are on the programme of the forthcoming Games?
You can find the International Olympic Committee's rule on the programme of the Olympic Games in the Olympic Charter.
- Chapter 5, Rule 46 and its Bye-law, p. 86-91
- Programme of the 2010 Vancouver Games
- Programme of the 2012 London Games
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What is a recognised sport ?
You can find the International Olympic Committee's rule on the recognition of International Sports Federations in the Olympic Charter.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What are Olympic sports, disciplines and events?
For a sport to be made an Olympic sport it has to be governed by an International Federation recognised by the International Olympic Committee.
A discipline is a branch of an Olympic sport that includes one or more events.
An event is a competition in an Olympic sport or in one of its disciplines.
- Learn more (pages 6-8)
- Olympic Charter: Chapter 5, Rule 46 and its Bye-law, p. 86-91
- The Olympic Sports
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- How does an athlete get to participate in the Olympic Games?
In order to participate in the Olympic Games, athletes have to abide by the Olympic Charter and the rules of the International Federation (IF) responsible for their sport. The IFs organise qualification events, while the National Olympic Committee (NOC) of the athlete's country is responsible for bringing athletes to the Games.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What is an International Sports Federation?
The International Sports Federations (IFs) have the responsibility and duty to manage and to monitor the everyday running of the world's various sports disciplines, including the practical organisation of events during the Games, and the supervision of the development of athletes practising these sports at every level.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.Athletes
- How do the athletes live during the Olympic Games?
During the Olympic fortnight, the athletes live in the Olympic Village. What is the advantage of these villages? Here, the athletes find all the necessary commodities, shops, post offices, cinemas, cultural centres and, of course, restaurants. Food requirements are enormous. The menus are varied in order to correspond to the food habits of athletes from five continents.
The Village has high security and only people with special accreditations have access.
You can find the conclusions of an international symposium organised at the Olympic Museum in 1996 on the theme of Olympic Villages here.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- How does an athlete get to participate in the Olympic Games?
In order to participate in the Olympic Games, athletes have to abide by the Olympic Charter and the rules of the International Federation (IF) responsible for their sport. The IFs organise qualification events, while the National Olympic Committee (NOC) of the athlete's country is responsible for bringing athletes to the Games.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Where can I find the results of an Olympic Games medallist?
To find the olympic results of an athlete, you can either do a name search or consult the complete results database, using the Olympic medals search facility, on the Athletes' section on this page.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What do the winners receive?
The moment of victory is symbolised by the athlete stepping onto the podium to receive his or her medal.
The winning athletes receive medals and diplomas during a victory ceremony organised at the end of every competition. This has been the case since 1932 in Los Angeles. A diploma is awarded to those coming from 4th to 8th. Gold, silver and bronze medals were not awarded until 1904.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.Olympic Movement
- What is the Olympic Movement?
The Olympic Movement groups together all those who agree to be guided by the Olympic Charter and who recognise the authority of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), namely: the International Federations (IF) of sports on the programme of the Olympic Games; the National Olympic Committees (NOCs), the Organising Committees of the Olympic Games (OCOGs), athletes, judges and referees, associations and clubs, as well as all the organisations and institutions recognised by the IOC.
- Who belongs to the olympic movement?
- The Olympic Charter: Fundamental Principles p. 11
- The Olympic Movement
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- How does one become a member of the International Olympic Committee?
The members of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) are all natural persons. The IOC includes among its members active and non-active athletes and Presidents or senior leaders of International Sports Federations (IFs), international organisations recognised by the IOC.
The IOC recruits and elects its members from among such persons as it considers qualified.
You can find more information on the recruitment and election of IOC members in the Olympic Charter.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Who are the Presidents of the International Olympic Committee since 1894?
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- How does the International Olympic Committee (IOC) operate?
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Why does the International Olympic Committee have its headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland?
Since 1915, the IOC headquarters have been in Lausanne, on the shores of Lake Geneva. It was Coubertin who chose this city, in the midst of the First World War in France where the IOC was established (Paris).
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What are the commissions of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and what is their role?
There are currently 21 commissions within the IOC, such as, for example:
- The Athletes' Commission
- Women and Sport Commission
- Sport for All Commission
- Marketing Commission
- Ethics Commission
They are formed at the request of the IOC President, with the aim of going in depth into certain subjects and formulating recommendations for the Executive Board.
IOC Commissions work contribute to promoting the ideals of the Olympic spirit in their specific domains.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What does the IOC Ethics Commission do?
Its mission is to ensure respect of the ethical principles within the Olympic Movement, as defined in the Olympic Charter. To this end, the Ethics Commission determines the applicable rules and, in the event of a breach of these, can make a recommendation to the IOC Executive Board.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Who can be concerned by the Ethics Commission's recommendations?
The Ethics Commission can make recommendations concerning the people or organisations required to respect the Olympic Charter and the IOC Code of Ethics: IOC members, the Organising Committees for the Olympic Games (OCOGs), the National Olympic Committees (NOCs), cities bidding to host the Olympic Games and, during the Olympic Games, all those taking part in the Games.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Who can refer cases to the Ethics Commission?
Everyone concerned by a breach of the ethical principles set out in the Code of Ethics, provided that the complaint is against one of the bodies required to respect the Code of Ethics - the IOC members, the Organising Committees for the Olympic Games (OCOGs), the National Olympic Committees (NOCs), the Olympic Games Candidate Cities and Olympic Games participants. This complaint will be forwarded to the President of the International Olympic Committee for analysis and referral of the case with a view to a recommendation if the situation makes it necessary.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Where does the Session fit in within the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) organisation?
The Session is the general meeting of the IOC members. It is the IOC's supreme organ, and its decisions are final. An ordinary Session is held once a year. Extraordinary Sessions may be convened by the President or upon the written request of at least one third of the members.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What are the powers of the Session?
The powers of the Session are as follows:
- To adopt or amend the Olympic Charter.
- To elect the members of the IOC, the Honorary President, honorary members and honour members.
- To elect the President, the Vice-Presidents and all other members of the IOC Executive Board.
- To elect the host city of the Olympic Games.
- To determine the city in which an ordinary Session is held, the President having the authority to determine the city in which an extraordinary Session is held.
- To approve the annual report and accounts of the IOC.
- To appoint the IOC's auditors.
- To decide on the awarding or withdrawal by the IOC of full recognition to or from NOCs, associations of NOCs, IFs, associations of IFs and other organisations.
- To expel IOC members and to withdraw the status of Honorary President, honorary members and honour members.
- To resolve and decide upon all other matters assigned to it by law or by the Olympic Charter.
The powers of the IOC Session are governed by the Olympic Charter: Chapter 2, Rule 18 and its Bye-law, p. 39-42
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What does the Executive Board represent in the organisation of the International Olympic Committee (IOC)?
The IOC Executive Board (EB), created in 1921, assumes general responsibility for the IOC’s administration, and manages its affairs.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What are the responsibilities of an International Sports Federation (IF)?
The International Summer and Winter Sports Federations (IFs) have the responsibility and duty of managing and supervising the daily functioning of the various sporting disciplines in the world, including the practical organisation of events during the Games. They must also, and above all, monitor the development of the athletes who practise these sports at all levels.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What are the responsibilities of a National Olympic Committee (NOC)?
There are over 200 National Olympic Committees spread over the five continents, whose functions include disseminating the Olympic values at national level.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.Marketing
- What are the objectives of Olympic marketing?
To implement long-term programmes (sponsorships, licensing, Olympic stamps and coins, etc.) to guarantee the stability and financial independence of the Olympic Movement.
To ensure fair sharing of revenues between e.g. the Organising Committees, International Federations and National Olympic Committees.
To preserve the inherent value of the Olympic ideal and image.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Where does the Olympic Movement’s revenue come from?
It comes from several large programmes, such as broadcasting, the TOP programme, national sponsorship, ticketing and licensing.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- How are the Olympic marketing revenues split?
The IOC passes on approximately 92 per cent of marketing revenues to organisations belonging to the Olympic Movement. The aim is to contribute to the organisation of the Olympic Games and to promote the development of sport throughout the world. The IOC keeps about eight per cent of the revenues to cover its own operating costs.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What is the TOP programme?
The abbreviation “TOP” stands for “The Olympic Partner Programme”. This is a global sponsorship programme managed by the IOC. Created in 1985, its aim is to generate diversified revenue to be shared in equal measure between the OCOGs and the Olympic Movement. The TOP programme is established for a duration of four years, corresponding to the Olympic quadrennial period.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What is the IOC’s policy on broadcasting the Olympic Games?
The IOC’s fundamental policy is stipulated in the Olympic Charter. It consists of ensuring maximum dissemination of the Games throughout the world. Television rights to the Olympic Games are sold only to broadcasters which can guarantee free coverage in their respective territories.
- Broadcasting the Olympic Games
- Olympic Charter: Chapter 5, Rule 49, p. 98
- Information file on Olympic marketing 2008 (p. 21)
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.Olympic Education
- How can I obtain information on the Games for work with my class?
Files are available in the “Documents” section (access at the bottom of the page). The themes covered are:
- The Olympic Games of Antiquity
- The Modern Olympic Games
- The Olympic Movement
- The Olympic Symbols
- The Olympic Posters
- The Olympic Torch and Relay
- All the files
With an educational goal, those wishing to obtain an edited version of the documents (high quality images) can contact the Educational and Cultural Services Section.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Which of the Olympic Movement's official publications are available at the library?
- Bid files for the Olympic Games (from 1924)
- Olympic Games' Official Reports (from 1896)
- Publications edited by the Organising Committees for the Olympic Games (from 1896)
- Olympic Review (from 1894)
- Olympic Charter (from 1908)
- Olympic Directories (from 1969)
- Publications edited by the International Olympic Committee and the Olympic Museum
- Official publications of the International Olympic Sports Federations and National Olympic Committees (from 1969)
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What themes are on offer at the library?
- The IOC and the Olympic Movement
- Ancient and Modern Olympic Games
- Olympic sports and sports recognized by the IOC
- Themes linked to the Olympic and sporting phenomenon: philosophy, psychology, sociology, politics, security, management, economics, marketing/sponsoring, law, education, science, medicine and health, technology, architecture and infrastructure, arts and culture, tourism, environment, history, biographies.
The library comprises more than 24,000 books, 420 titles of journals, 50 titles of electronic journals, 500 DVD movies and cd-roms.
The access to the library, which is situated in the Museum basement, is free. There is no charge for loaning documents. Up to six documents may be borrowed for one month.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What are the collections kept by the IOC’s Historical Archives?
- IOC Presidents
- IOC decision-making bodies
- Olympic Games
- IOC’s relations with the Olympic Movement
- IOC administration
- Olympic Museum
- Collections linked to the Olympic Movement
- Private collections: Paul Martin, Charles Waldstein, Francis Messerli, Albert Mayer and Otto Mayer.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What are the access conditions for the documents in the IOC archive?
These documents have an embargo. The majority are only accessible 20 years after their creation (e.g. a document from 1984 will only be accessible from 1 January 2005).
Others have tighter access restrictions. For more information please see article 5 of the Access Rules.
Consultations are done at the Olympic Studies Centre under the supervision of an archivist. On request, copies of the documents can be provided.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- How can I come to consult the archive documents at the Olympic Studies Centre or obtain copies of archive documents?
Please make your request as precise and detailed as possible, and send it to this adress.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Who is eligible to receive a research grant?
Any postgraduate student working on a doctorate, or any university teacher who obtained his or her doctorate in the last five years, and who is working on research linked to Olympism and/or the Olympic Games may apply for the postgraduate researchers grant programme.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Where can I find a list of research projects awarded grants?
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- How can I come to conduct research at the Olympic Studies Centre (OSC)?
The OSC collections group together the documents of the library, historical archives and the Images Section (photos and videos).
You can send a request, by completing our form in detail, to this adress.
After receiving the form and studying the availability, a staff member will contact you as soon as possible, in order to confirm your visit.
N.B. Access to the collections is free of charge but all related costs (travel, accommodation, photocopies, etc.) are covered by the researcher.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What publications are for sale?
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.Olympism and society
- What is the role of women in the Olympic Movement?
For the IOC, the participation of women in sports activities and in the Olympic Games, as well as in sports administration bodies, is a major concern. This wish is reflected in the Olympic Charter as one of the IOC’s missions.
- The promotion of women in sport
- Information sheet: Women in the Olympic Movement
- Women and Sport Commission
- Olympic Charter: Chapter 1, Rule 2, p. 15
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- How does the Olympic Movement contribute to the equitable development of sport?
Olympic Solidarity is the body responsible for the administration and management of the part of television rights to the Olympic Games destined for the National Olympic Committees (NOCs). It helps the NOCs and their continental associations in the development of sport, through varied programmes adapted to their needs and priorities.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.Usage of Olympic Content
- Can I use the flash animations found on the site which give detailed explanations on the different Olympic sports and disciplines?
These animations are the property of the AFP (Agence France Presse) and all rights are reserved.
They may not be reproduced, modified, transmitted, broadcast, translated, sold, used commercially or re-used in any way without prior written agreement from the AFP.
Should you so wish, you may therefore contact the AFP directly.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- I would like to buy a copy of the Opening Ceremony of one edition of the Olympic Games. How do I do so?
The access to the IOC audiovisual archives is reserved for professional entities such as agencies, broadcasters, production companies, academic work and the Olympic family, therefore we can not follow up on private requests.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- I am looking for Olympic photos. How do I do so?
The access to the IOC photographic archives is reserved for professional entities such as agencies, editors, production companies, academic work and the Olympic family, therefore we can not follow up on private requests.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- What is the IOC's rule on sharing links?
For outgoing links:
The IOC's policy as far as outgoing links are concerned (from www.olympic.org to an external site) is that these are only available to associations, companies and other organisations that are members of the Olympic Movement (National Olympic Committees [NOCs], Organising Committees for the Olympic Games [OCOGs], International Federations [IFs], business partners and organisations recognised by the IOC).
For incoming links:
Links to www.olympic.org are generally accepted. Notwithstanding, they must be in text format only, as the use of the Olympic Rings is strictly forbidden by non-rights-holders. Furthermore, as far as possible, the links must be shown on the site's home page. Commercial use of links is not allowed in any circumstances.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Is it possible to use the content (texts, images and films) on the Olympic Movement's website?
No part of this site can be copied, re-published, stocked in a search system or data extraction system, or reproduced, broadcast, in whatever way, shape or form, without prior written permission from the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
First, a request form must be filled including as many details as possible. Obligatory information includes :
- Who is making the request? Name, full address, telephone and/or fax number, e-mail address. Institution, organisation, company, museum or individual.
- Which content is concerned? (texts, images or films)
- How will the content be used? Private use (no broadcasting), school work, group activities, exhibition, production/broadcasting.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.- Can I use the Olympic Rings?
The Olympic rings are the exclusive property of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and cannot be used without the IOC's prior written consent. You will find the rule about this subject in the Olympic Charter.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.Others
- How can I work for the International Olympic Committee?
A link entitled "Jobs", at the bottom of our website pages, leads to the section devoted exclusively to jobs available at the International Olympic Committee. Any interested candidate will be able to submit their application.
Did this answer your question ?Click yes to return to the FAQ, click no to ask your question.If you cannot find an answer in the FAQ’s, ask your question
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- I would like to buy a copy of the Opening Ceremony of one edition of the Olympic Games. How do I do so?
- Where does the Olympic Movement’s revenue come from?
- How does an athlete get to participate in the Olympic Games?
- What measures are taken against doping at the Olympic Games?
- Can I use the Olympic Rings?
- Why do the athletes take an oath at the Olympic Games?
- Why do the Games of the Olympiad take place every four years?
- Where can I find the results of an Olympic Games medallist?
- How can I be a volunteer at the Olympic Games?
- How are the host cities of the Olympic Games chosen?