IOC Session approves amendments to Olympic Charter to clarify definition and composition of Olympic emblems
The 145th IOC Session meeting in Milan, Italy on the eve of the Olympic Winter Games has approved amendments to the Olympic Charter intended to clarify the definition and design standards for the creation of Olympic emblems, thereby strengthening the protection of the Olympic brand. The proposal, which is based on a recommendation by the IOC Legal Affairs Commission, was submitted to the Session by the IOC Executive Board following its meeting in December 2025.
In addition to amendments relating to Olympic emblems, the Session also approved additional modifications intended to reflect changes within the IOC and the wider Olympic Movement.
The amendments to the Charter will:
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Ensure consistency and clarity in the use of abbreviations, reflecting the official name changes of organisations within the Olympic Movement (abbreviations used within the Olympic Movement).
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Clarify the definition of an Olympic emblem by specifying that, beyond the Olympic symbol, it includes a written component and, where relevant, a distinctive graphic element, ensuring alignment with current design practices and usage (Rule 11).
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Update the design standards for Olympic emblems created by Organising Committees (OCOGs), ensuring alignment with the new future-proof emblem system model, while enhancing the visibility and protection of the Olympic symbol and the Olympic event designations (Bye-law to Rules 7-14).
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Reflect the change of name of the IOC Medical and Scientific Commission to IOC Health, Medicine and Science Commission (Bye-law to Rule 21.7).
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Clarify the status of Olympic mascots as an Olympic property and not an Olympic emblem (Bye-law to Rule 50.2).
The updated edition of the Olympic Charter in force as of 3 February 2026 is available online.
The Olympic Charter was first published in 1908, under the title of "Annuaire du Comité International Olympique." It is the codification of the Fundamental Principles of Olympism, and the rules and bye-laws adopted by the IOC. It serves as the statutes of the organisation and is regularly updated to accurately reflect changes within the IOC and the wider Olympic Movement.