How Does The New Summer Olympic Torch Compare to Others?
For the 2024 Olympics, the torch will reach France on May 8, 2024 in Marseille after a Mediteranean journey from Greece. From there, it will cross France until the Opening Ceremony on July 26, when it will light the official Games cauldron by the final relay torchbearer; always a highlight of the evening.
Designer Mathieu Lehanneur was commissioned to work on the torch, inspired by the themes of 'equality, water, and peacefulness' - resulting in symmetry, waves, and gentle curves, respectively. The unique champagne color of the torch adds a sense of 'lightness'.
Some fact and figures:
- Size: 70cm
- Minimum diameter: 3.5cm
- Maximum diameter: 10cm
- Weight: 1.5kg
- Color: Champagne
- Material: ArcelorMittal XCarb® steel from recycled and renewable sources
- Fuel: Biopropane
- Number of Torches produced: 2,000
What do you think of the new torch? And how does it compare to previous ones?
One notable innovation at the Summer Games of Berlin 1936 was the institution of a torch relay, which necessitated the design of an official torch. That first torch was made of silver-colored steel, with a magnesium tube fueled by flammable paste. Frtitz Schilgen, a 1,500 meter runner - but notably, not an Olympian - was the final torch-bearer.
Take a look at the slideshow below for a look at all the previous official torches from the Summer Games.
All images from olympics.com, where more detail and history on each edition can be found.