London 2012 Olympic Torch

A complex blend of functionality and symbolism, the torch design is imbued with a strong cultural and historical narrative. Its three-sided form cites a pattern of trinities: the third Olympics in London; the Olympic motto ‘Faster, Higher, Stronger’; and the three Olympic Values: respect, excellence and friendship. Eight thousand perforations represent the 8,000 torchbearers and their 8,000-mile journey, while making the torch lighter, easy to grip, and allowing heat from the flame to dissipate without conducting down the handle. Rigorously tested in extreme conditions, it had just two ‘flame-outs’ during the relay – the most reliable Olympic torch on record.