Athlete Marketing - IOC Rule 50 / IPC Guidelines

According to the IOC, in an effort to avoid the over-commercialization of the Games, keep the focus on athletes’ performance and ensure venues remain free from advertising, a number of rules are in place for athletes, officials and accredited persons regarding the use of trademarks and other identification on clothing, equipment and accessories during Games. The IOC’s Rule 50 and IPC rules also exist to ensure the Games remain free from demonstrations and political, religious, and racial propaganda.

Generally, these guidelines apply during Games times. The IOC guidelines are usually in effect from the opening to the closing of the Olympic Villages. The IPC guidelines are usually applicable from the opening to the closing of the Paralympic Villages.

IOC Rule 50 guidelines are available here. Also read the IOC guidelines regarding authorized identifications for the Beijing 2022 Games.

Note: These guidelines were put in place by the IOC in the leadup to the Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018.

IPC Guidelines: the IPC guidelines similar to the IOC’s Rule 50 are available in the IPC Handbook, available here. Applicable sections include, but may not be limited to, 2.1 (eligibility code compliance), 2.2 (discrimination and propaganda), 2.6 (clean venue), 5.1 (brand). Manufacturer Identification Guidelines for the respective Games should also be taken into account.