Pierre de Coubertin Medal

Purpose and criteria

The medal honors demonstrations of moral courage, generosity toward competitors, and concrete deeds that uphold the spirit of Olympism rather than victory or performance alone. Examples include assisting a rival in distress, refusing an unfair advantage, or taking action to preserve the integrity of competition. The award is granted sparingly and may be presented to athletes, teams, coaches, officials or volunteers whose conduct has had notable moral or symbolic impact.

Presentation and form

The distinction is presented by the IOC and generally takes the form of a specially struck medal named for Pierre de Coubertin, the founder of the modern Olympic Games. Presentation may occur during an Olympic Games or at another ceremony organized by the IOC, depending on the circumstances surrounding the act being honored.

History and notable examples

The medal draws its name from Pierre de Coubertin and reflects his emphasis on education, fair play and international friendship through sport. Over the years the award has been given on a limited number of occasions. One widely cited example is the Italian bobsledder Eugenio Monti, recognized for helping rival teams with mechanical assistance that enabled fair competition; such stories have come to symbolize the award's intent.

Distinctions and related awards

The Pierre de Coubertin Medal should not be confused with the Pierre de Coubertin World Trophy, which is administered by the International Fair Play Committee and is a separate honor. The IOC medal specifically links acts of sportsmanship to the Olympic Movement itself and is independent of performance-based Olympic medals.

Significance

Because it rewards character and ethics rather than results, the medal is valued as a moral recognition within the Olympic community. It highlights moments when sport advances broader social values and serves as a reminder that the Games aim to celebrate human dignity and mutual respect as much as athletic achievement.