What are the official languages of the Olympics?

The official languages of the Olympics are English and French. This designation stems from the history of the Olympic Games and the role that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) plays in their administration. English serves as a global lingua franca, making it essential for communication in a worldwide context, while French holds historical significance as a language of diplomacy and is traditionally associated with the founding of the modern Olympic Movement.

This dual-language approach reflects the IOC's commitment to inclusivity and international representation, facilitating communication among athletes, officials, and audiences from diverse backgrounds. Other languages may be used during the games and in specific contexts, but English and French are the established official languages recognized for all formal IOC communications and documentation.