The official uniform of the Chinese sports delegation for the Paris 2024 Olympics. Photo: VCG

The French National Olympic and Sports Committee (CNOSF) recently received four pieces of Chinese blue and white porcelain made by a Chinese artist, which highlighted the ongoing cultural exchange and appreciation between France and China during the Paris Olympic Games. 

These artifacts not only showcase China's rich cultural heritage but also symbolize the universal values and global resonance of the Olympic spirit, according to the CNOSF.

In addition to these exquisite artifacts, the Chinese delegation arrived in Paris in style carrying some distinctive cultural icons, such as the Chinese athletes' suitcases featuring Terracotta Warriors, the official medal ceremony uniform featuring the Chinese dragon as well as the red-and-white attire for the opening ceremony. 

Fan Yifeng, dean of the school of design at Dalian Minzu University, told the Global Times on Wednesday that integrating Chinese cultural icons with sports is a great way to promote the Chinese culture at international sports events.

"What impressed me most is the medal ceremony uniform, as the Chinese dragon element has been used for years in its design. The dragon-themed outfit is visually striking," said Fan.

"Sports transcend national boundaries. To promote the athletic spirit, it's important to work on how to better combine the Chinese culture with key sport-related words such as passion, vigor and vitality so as to reach a broader global audience," Fan noted. 

On Tuesday, a Chinese sports culture exhibition themed on "Vigor and Sportsmanship" opened at the Bastille Design Center in Paris. Boasting 139 collections, the exhibition was designed to show the culture and spirit of Chinese sports, and introduce visitors to the practice of sports in ancient China.

The exhibition is also part of the celebrations for the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and France, showcasing the historical exchanges and mutual influence between China and France in various sports, including racing, cycling, tennis, soccer, and dragon boat racing. It highlights the shared human values embedded in the sports philosophies of both countries, reflecting a harmonious blend of Chinese and French sport cultures.

Traditional-style Chinese athletes' suitcases, "Yingyong" (bravery) Photo: VCG

Auspicious uniform

On July 20, the renowned Chinese women volleyball team arrived in Paris. When they stepped out of the airport, a line of black suitcases drew public attention. Unlike their usual luggage, the new suitcases feature Chinese traditional motifs on and the wheels, sparkling golden light, and look like ancient chariot wheels. 

The red and black suitcase, named "Yingyong"(bravery), is inspired by the scale armor of ancient Terracotta Warriors and is ornated with a bowtie similar to that of a general figure at the top. The golden wheels at the bottom draw inspiration from ancient chariot wheels, while the zipper heads are designed to resemble shields. The suitcase also has a metal plate on the front with the Chinese national flag, symbolizing the valor of leading an army into battle.

Bai Jianfeng, a member of the design team said that they sought inspiration from China's splendid civilization and world cultural heritage. The armor design signifies better protection for the athletes and also indicates that the Chinese sports delegation are our heroes, hoping they will return victorious, according to China Central Television News.

Olympic podium outfits from around the world have always garnered attention, and China's outfit lives up to expectations with its dragon-themed design elements. 

Officially called the "Champions Dragon Outfit," the outfit is inspired by traditional Chinese aesthetics, featuring classic tailoring and white as its primary color.The design incorporates elements like dragon scales through embossing, patchwork, and embroidery, highlighting China's rich cultural heritage and the energetic spirit of its modern athletes.

Li Qian, a two-time Olympic medalist in women's middleweight boxing, highlighted the outfit's cultural significance. "The Year of the Dragon is very auspicious for Chinese people. This dragon-themed outfit is unique, and I hope to wear it on the Paris Olympic podium," Li told reporters.

In addition to their cultural symbolism, these uniforms utilize green technology, with the production process using eco-friendly materials like recycled nylon and recycled polyester, achieving over 50 percent carbon reduction.

Distinctive patterns

Many netizens have shared the view online that although aesthetic preferences may vary, the red and white outfit is simple and elegant. 

"The dragon patterns on the arms and the dragon heads on the zippers reflect Chinese cultural characteristics and complement each other well," a netizen, surnamed Luo, told the Global Times.

"The combination of red and white is stunning. The cuffs and patterns look like superhero armor, very imposing," Paul Marfinetz, a sports fan from the US, told the Global Times.

The opening ceremony attire is named "Chasing Dreams" and incorporates rich elements of traditional Chinese culture. Both the men's and women's jackets feature patterns derived from the bricks of the Great Wall. This pattern, with its horizontal and vertical lines, conveys a sense of integrity and rigor.

The women's attire combines elements of the Chinese qipao and the traditional Song Dynasty (960-1279) costume, featuring bamboo patterns - a significant symbol in traditional Chinese culture representing harmony, unity, resilience, and continuous growth. 

The men's shirts have a small standing collar with Chinese-style buttons, showcasing the Chinese spirit of perseverance and striving for excellence in the world.

Shining on the stage of Paris Olympic Games, these cultural icons provide an opportunity for global athletes to gain a better understanding of Chinese culture, promoting cultural exchanges between China and other countries.