Olympic Order

The highest award of the International Olympic Committee, recognizing distinguished service to the Olympic movement. It is presented in gold, silver, or bronze.

International Olympic Committee: The nongovernmental organization that governs the Olympic movement and organizes the Olympic Games. The IOC established the award and decides who receives it.
Olympism: The philosophy of life that combines sport with culture and education in the Olympic movement. The Order honors contributions to this broader philosophy, not only to competition.
Thomas Bach: German sports administrator and former fencer who served as International Olympic Committee president from 2013 to 2025. His IOC leadership places him among figures associated with the award’s institutional world.
Laureus World Sports Awards: Annual international awards recognizing achievement in sport and the social impact of sport. These honors focus on sporting achievement, unlike the Order’s recognition of Olympic service.
Juan Antonio Samaranch: Spanish sports administrator who served as president of the International Olympic Committee from 1980 to 2001. During his presidency, the Order became a prominent means of honoring Olympic service.
Olympic movement: The international network of organizations, athletes, and others guided by the Olympic Charter. Its people and institutions are the community the Order is meant to recognize.
Nelson Mandela: South African anti-apartheid leader and president who supported sport’s role in reconciliation. His recognition illustrates the Order’s reach beyond Olympic administration and athletic results.
Olympic Cup: An International Olympic Committee award recognizing institutions or associations for services to sport. It honors organizations, while the Order is principally a distinction for individuals.
Olympic Charter: The rules and principles adopted by the International Olympic Committee to govern the Olympic movement. Its framework defines the movement whose service the Order recognizes.
Olympic medal: An award given to athletes for placing in an Olympic event. Unlike an Olympic medal, the Order recognizes service rather than competitive results.

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