The official online fan shop of the Olympic Games has come under intense scrutiny for selling T-shirts adorned with designs from the Berlin Olympic Games of 1936, an event historically exploited by Adolf Hitler and the Nazis for propaganda purposes. Critics across Germany are calling for an immediate halt to these sales, labeling them inappropriate and disrespectful. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) defends the merchandise as part of its Heritage Collection, which aims to celebrate styles from all editions of the Games.
Currently out of stock, the T-shirts feature Franz Würbel's original poster design for the 1936 Olympics, a spectacle that served as a platform for Hitler’s quest to promote ideals of racial superiority while showcasing Nazi Germany to the world. Klara Schedlich, a spokesperson from Germany’s Green Party, articulated concern that the IOC has failed to adequately reflect on its history and criticized the choice of imagery as unsuitable for casual wear.
Despite understanding the historical implications of Nazi propaganda, the IOC emphasizes the Games' significance, highlighting the participation of 4,483 athletes from 49 countries. They released a statement noting that while they promote their Olympic Heritage Collection, they also acknowledge the remarkable athletic feats of athletes like Jesse Owens, who won four gold medals and defied the Aryan myth.
As discussions continue, the IOC asserts that although the T-shirts embody a complex history, the Olympic Museum in Lausanne provides context about the Berlin Games, fostering a deeper understanding among the public.
Currently out of stock, the T-shirts feature Franz Würbel's original poster design for the 1936 Olympics, a spectacle that served as a platform for Hitler’s quest to promote ideals of racial superiority while showcasing Nazi Germany to the world. Klara Schedlich, a spokesperson from Germany’s Green Party, articulated concern that the IOC has failed to adequately reflect on its history and criticized the choice of imagery as unsuitable for casual wear.
Despite understanding the historical implications of Nazi propaganda, the IOC emphasizes the Games' significance, highlighting the participation of 4,483 athletes from 49 countries. They released a statement noting that while they promote their Olympic Heritage Collection, they also acknowledge the remarkable athletic feats of athletes like Jesse Owens, who won four gold medals and defied the Aryan myth.
As discussions continue, the IOC asserts that although the T-shirts embody a complex history, the Olympic Museum in Lausanne provides context about the Berlin Games, fostering a deeper understanding among the public.
