As the world eagerly anticipates the XXXIII Olympic Games, set to unfold in Paris in 2024, an intriguing tradition has captured the curiosity of fans and athletes alike.
Beyond the shimmering gold, silver, and bronze medals draped around the necks of triumphant athletes, a long, thin rectangular box handed to winners has sparked widespread speculation.
So, what is the mystery behind this enigmatic box presented to the victorious athletes?
The answer lies within the artistic heritage of Paris, blending the city’s profound appreciation for art with the timeless honor of the Olympics. Inside each box is a specially designed poster by acclaimed French artist and illustrator Ugo Gattoni.
Renowned for his intricate and imaginative works, Gattoni’s poster for the Paris Games is a visual celebration of the event, capturing the essence and spirit of the Olympics in the City of Lights.
These posters, however, are not merely souvenirs. The versions handed out to athletes are special edition prints, distinguished by exquisite details correlating to their podium finishes.
Gold medalists receive posters embellished with gold detailing, silver medalists with silver, and bronze with bronze. This unique touch transforms each poster into a personalized memento, symbolizing the athletes’ extraordinary achievements and the specific glory they earned.
The idea behind these artistic prizes is deeply rooted in the Olympic tradition of honoring not just the physical prowess but also the cultural and intellectual achievements. The Paris 2024 organizers,
in collaboration with Gattoni, aimed to provide athletes with a keepsake that extends beyond their sporting victories, embedding a piece of Parisian artistry and history into their Olympic legacy.
The public, too, can own a piece of this Olympic art, as the posters are available for purchase, though without the distinctive gold, silver, or bronze embellishments that mark the athletes’ editions.
This initiative opens a channel for fans to connect with the games on a deeper level, owning a slice of the artistic narrative that underscores the event.
As the athletes stand on the podium, the box they receive is more than just a token—it is a bridge between the past and the present, between sport and art, encapsulating the essence of the Olympic spirit and the timeless allure of Paris.
