Hats off to the Phryges!
Throughout the Olympics and Paralympics, it was hard not to notice a certain group of giant, red, triangular figures lurking about in Paris. We are, of course, talking about the Phryges (pronounced "FREE-jes") — the mascots of the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
These mascots resemble Phrygian caps, a historical symbol of France. According to their lore, the Olympic Phryge and Paralympic Phryge are just two individuals in a large family of Phryges that have existed for thousands of years and were present during key events in the country's history.
During the 2024 Paris Games, they were everywhere. They were many. And they were breakout stars.
Below we've compiled 10 superlatives to honor a few of our favorite Phryges.
The Phryges most likely to win a Grammy
Maybe you've heard "Parade," the official anthem of the 2024 Paris Games? The song was composed by Victor Le Masne, but not without the assistance of a talented group of Phryges.
If this Phryge collaborates on a track with the one-and-only Snoop Dogg, though, it's game over for everyone else on the charts. The summer belonged to Sabrina Carpenter, but the fall might belong to this iconic duo.
The Phryges most likely to end up on Broadway
If there's one thing consistent about the many Phryges, it's that they all seem to love dancing. Like, really love it. Just look at these moves.
The Phryges most likely to win an Olympic or Paralympic medal
Don't mess with this Phryge. They've been pumping iron in hopes of making France's weightlifting team at the 2028 LA Games.
How about blind soccer? Yep, the Phryge can do that too.
The Phryges most likely to appear at LA28
Only the Phryge who “made history as the furthest traveled Olympic mascot,” would be rad enough to get on a jet ski in a traditional Tahitian leaf crown to support the surfers. It's almost guaranteed this Phryge will bring its Olympic spirit to check out the waves on the California coast.
Of course, the Paralympic Phryge who held up a sign saying, “Can’t wait for LA28!” will be the first on the plane to LA from Paris.
There's also the curious case of one Phryge who — despite being Paris' mascot — got really into the "Star-Spangled Banner." This Phryge is definitely ready for LA.
The Phryges most likely to appear in Paris Fashion Week
This summer Phryges brought Parisian street style to the Games. First, with a ballet-pink daytime number with matching shoes and bow at the Olympics Opening Ceremony. Then, with a sequined evening look meant to glitter under the lights of the Paralympics Closing Ceremony.
The Phryge most likely to ask to pet your horse
This Phryge was all smiles when it met a horse on Day 7 of the Paralympics. Bravo to Lousie Duncan and her horse Showcase BC of New Zealand for competing in dressage Grade IV and helping create this adorable moment.
The Phryges most likely to hang in the Louvre
Mona Lisa’s smile... The Phryge’s gleaming eyes... sometimes art is the Olympic and Paralympic mascots reuniting in France’s most iconic museum. Bonus points if you spot the Phrygian cap in the “Liberty Leading the People” painting.
The Phryges most likely to cook dinner for you
Paris is well-known around the world for its delicious cuisine, so it's no surprise that the Phryges want to make sure that everyone gets to experience it. And look, you might be thinking that popcorn isn't exactly a French delicacy, but come on — the Phryges' arms aren't exactly made for cooking. They're doing the best they can here.
The Phryges most likely to race in F1
Beep beep! A French athlete raced this Phryge-covered car through the streets of Paris to the Paralympics Opening Ceremony.
The Phryge to most likely say “Remember in Paris when...”
This Phryge is all about nostalgia as it slowly walks out of Paris at the end of the Games. It brought the spirit to the Olympics and Paralympics and it’s not going to let the world forget anytime soon. Until next time... au revoir Phryge!