Olympics vs. Paralympics: Tattoo regulations see a change in policy in global sporting events.

A tradition that has emerged among Olympians over the years is getting tattoos of the Olympic rings to commemorate their participation. At the Paris 2024 Olympics, numerous athletes displayed their Olympic ring tattoos while competing. These tattoos have become a common symbol of achievement among Olympians, and some Paralympians have also adopted this tradition by getting the same Olympic ring tattoos.

The Olympic emblem, one of the most recognized symbols globally, features 5 interlocking rings in blue, yellow, black, green, and red on a white background. The Paralympic emblem, on the other hand, consists of 3 "agitos" (asymmetrical crescents) in red, blue, and green, encircling a single point on a white background.

In the UK, the Olympic Symbol etc. (Protection) Act 1995 ("OSPA") provides robust protection for the Olympic symbol, motto, and various associated words. These legal safeguards mean that key Olympic properties cannot be used in advertising without express permission. This protection extends to the Paralympic symbols and associated elements as well, ensuring that these iconic emblems are reserved exclusively for official use.

While Olympic athletes are permitted to display their Olympic ring tattoos during competition - the International Olympic Committee (IOC) does not prohibit the display of its logo as a tattoo - Paralympians faced different rules. The International Paralympic Committee (IPC), which operates separately from the IOC, had banned athletes from displaying Olympic ring tattoos during Paralympic events.

The IPC considered the Olympic rings a form of "body advertising," which conflicted with its branding policies, as the rings represent the Olympics rather than the Paralympics. In other words, the IOC and IPC have different emblems, and Rule 40 of the Olympic Charter restricts how athletes can use their name and image in terms of advertising during the ‘Games Period’.

This policy led to notable controversies, such as the case of British Paralympian Josef Craig. Craig was disqualified from the IPC European Championships after winning his heat in the S8 100m freestyle competition because he did not cover his Olympic rings tattoo. The IPC's strict enforcement of the no-body-advertising rule, which included the Olympic rings, drew criticism from many who felt it was overly harsh. To comply with these regulations, Paralympians historically had to cover their tattoos to avoid disqualification.

However, in a recent and significant shift in policy, the IPC overturned this rule just days before the Paris 2024 Paralympics. Athletes are now allowed to display their Olympic ring tattoos without facing penalties. Craig Spence, the chief brand and communications officer for the IPC, confirmed the policy change, stating in an email, "Athletes with such tattoos do not need to cover them up," but did not explain the reversal.

This decision has been welcomed by many as a move towards greater unity for athletes who have participated in both the Olympic and Paralympic Games. The policy change underscores the evolving nature of the regulations governing these global sporting events and reflects a broader trend toward inclusivity in the world of competitive sports.