New East Digital Archive

Sochi 2014 Olympic torch unveiled

Sochi 2014 Olympic torch unveiled
Photograph: RIA Novosti

15 January 2013

Russia’s Olympic Committee unveiled the silver torch to be used for the relay leading up to the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympic Games. The 95-cm torch is made of chrome and shaped like a feather to represent the Firebird, a mythical creature from Slavic folklore that is said to bring good fortune. The torch has been designed to protect the flame from harsh weather conditions including strong winds and heavy snow. Each of the 14,000 torchbearers on the 65,000km route will have their own torch in what is set to be the longest relay in Olympic history. The relay begins in October.