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Olympic Medals Facing Crisis: Athletes Demand Change

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, February 10th 2026 at 16:57 GMT by Newsweek
      Locales: ITALY, UNITED STATES, SWITZERLAND, FRANCE

Tuesday, February 10th, 2026 - The seemingly timeless symbol of Olympic glory is facing an unprecedented crisis. Athletes are increasingly vocal about the deteriorating quality of Olympic medals, with demands escalating beyond simple replacements to a complete redesign and the use of significantly more durable materials. The issue, initially simmering beneath the surface for several years, boiled over after highly publicized incidents at the 2023 World Athletics Championships in Budapest and continues to gain momentum.

Reports of medals visibly cracking and even breaking during celebratory moments sparked outrage amongst competitors. One athlete, speaking anonymously to The Times in 2023, succinctly captured the sentiment: "They're falling apart. What does that say about our achievement?" The problem isn't isolated to a single event; athletes have consistently reported issues with medal quality across multiple Olympic Games and World Championships, painting a picture of a systemic flaw.

The current Olympic medals are constructed from a base metal coated in silver. While aesthetically pleasing, this composition proves remarkably susceptible to damage. The enthusiastic handling inherent in victory celebrations - the gripping, shaking, and showcasing - puts considerable stress on the relatively fragile material. This leads to chipping, cracking, and, in some cases, complete breakage, diminishing the significance of what should be a lifetime achievement.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) initially responded to the growing chorus of complaints by pledging to replace damaged medals on a case-by-case basis. However, athletes overwhelmingly view this as a superficial band-aid solution. The core issue, they argue, is not simply about receiving a replacement, but about the fundamental integrity and longevity of the award itself.

"It's embarrassing," stated a veteran Olympic medalist who requested anonymity, fearing repercussions. "To train your entire life, dedicate yourself to a sport, and then receive an award that feels... cheap. It's a really poor look for the Olympics and undermines the prestige of the Games."

The call for change has evolved beyond mere repair. Athletes are actively proposing radical solutions, ranging from a complete overhaul of the medal design to the adoption of alternative, more robust materials. Suggestions include utilizing higher-grade alloys, incorporating titanium, or even exploring the use of ceramic composites - materials known for their exceptional strength and durability. There's even a movement gaining traction advocating for medals crafted from precious metals like gold and platinum, though the cost implications of such a shift are significant.

The financial aspect remains a key point of contention. Critics argue that while the IOC generates billions in revenue through broadcasting rights and sponsorships, a comparatively small investment in medal quality seems entirely justifiable. "They spend astronomical amounts on branding and spectacle," one athlete commented. "Surely they can afford to give us medals that don't fall apart." Concerns have been raised that cost-cutting measures implemented in recent years have prioritized aesthetics over substance, resulting in the current fragile medals.

The IOC, while acknowledging the concerns, has remained cautious in its public statements. In a press release issued last month, an IOC spokesperson stated that a committee has been formed to "evaluate potential improvements to medal composition and design," but offered no specific timeline for implementation. This lack of definitive action has further fueled athlete frustration.

Experts in materials science suggest that a move towards more durable materials isn't insurmountable. Dr. Anya Sharma, a materials engineer specializing in aerospace alloys, stated, "There are numerous materials available that could provide the necessary strength and longevity without significantly increasing costs. The challenge lies in balancing durability with aesthetic appeal and ensuring the material is suitable for intricate engraving and detailing."

The pressure on the IOC is intensifying. Several national Olympic committees are reportedly preparing to formally petition the IOC to address the issue, and a growing number of athletes are threatening to publicly boycott medal ceremonies if a satisfactory solution isn't found before the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The future of the Olympic medal - and its symbolic power - hangs in the balance. The athletes' demands are clear: they want awards that reflect the strength, dedication, and enduring legacy of Olympic achievement, not fragile tokens prone to disintegration.