Phryge: The Beloved Mascot of the Paris Olympics

The Rise of Phryge: A Symbol of French Pride at the Paris Olympics

Some liken it to a quirky fusion of the Eiffel Tower and a classic French beret, while others humorously compare it to a whimsical red French Smurf. Most, however, struggle to pronounce its name. Meet Phryge (pronounced “freej”), the official mascot of the Paris Olympics. Initially met with skepticism and mockery by the French public upon its debut, Phryge has since transformed into one of the most sought-after symbols of the Games, shifting the national sentiment from viewing the event as an unwelcome distraction to embracing it as a resounding success.

At the bustling Olympics megastore located on the iconic Champs-Élysées, an astonishing 15,000 eager shoppers queue up daily, forming a line that stretches nearly five blocks. They flock to purchase Phryge in its myriad forms—whether it’s posing as the Mona Lisa or dashing alongside the Olympic flame. Shoppers also indulge in millions of euros worth of official Olympic-branded merchandise.

“J’adore!” exclaimed Jenny Prudhomme, a local from southern France who is proudly volunteering at the Games. After emerging from the store one afternoon, she proudly carried a vibrant red tote bag emblazoned with the googly-eyed mascot, which draws inspiration from the Phrygian hat—a powerful emblem of the French Revolution. “It embodies the spirit of France, but more significantly, it serves as a cherished keepsake of the Olympic Games that have instilled such pride in us,” she added.

Once regarded as an underdog, Phryge has now secured its place as a beloved icon of the event.

With the closing ceremonies just around the corner, a palpable sense of French pride has surged, igniting an unexpected enthusiasm throughout Paris since the Olympic cauldron was first lit. The initial wave of discontent has been replaced by an overwhelming excitement, especially with nearly a million tourists flooding the city during the opening week. This enthusiasm has been further amplified by France’s record-breaking medal haul, with the mascot frequently rallying crowds at packed venues.