Athletes at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games might find themselves disqualified for an unusual reason.
Picture this: you’re about to dive into the swimming competition, but just as the signal is about to sound, someone signals for you to step off the block.
Officials notice a tattoo on you, not an offensive or controversial one, but one of the Olympic rings, resulting in your disqualification.
You have unknowingly violated a little-known Olympic rule that imposes strict regulations on athletes. Tough luck!
But what’s the reason behind this rule?
It all boils down to sponsorships and advertising.
Participating in the Olympics and Paralympics might not provide direct financial benefits, except for rewards from their home countries for winning medals.
However, athletes can still earn a living as many possess significant public profiles and large social media followings.
This naturally attracts advertisers who offer promotional deals in return for endorsements.
Yet, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) enforces strict rules on body advertising, including tattoos of the Olympic rings.
Outside of the games, it’s not an issue, but during the competition, it becomes a concern.
British athlete Josef Craig encountered this rule when he showcased a tattoo of the British Lion and the Olympic rings at the 2016 IPC European Championships in Madeira.
Since his body art was visible, the then-19-year-old was disqualified.
The IPC later justified their decision with a statement.
It stated: “Body advertising is not allowed in any way whatsoever and that includes the Olympic rings… the athlete did not wear a cover and was therefore disqualified.
“All teams are informed of the advertising policy at a technical meeting prior to competition so it wasn’t as if they had not been reminded about the rules.”
Craig went on to compete in the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games, winning a bronze medal in the 100m S8 freestyle. By then, he had covered the Olympic rings tattoo with the Union Jack.
In a contrasting situation, Australian swimmer Kyle Chalmers was allowed to compete with a tattoo of the five rings.
This is because the International Olympic Committee has different regulations compared to the International Paralympic Committee.
While Olympic athletes are generally permitted to display the rings, it’s a different case for Paralympic competitors.
The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games will take place from August 28 to September 8.