The launch of the logo was broadcast live on national television to audiences across China while the design commemorates Nanjing's rich history by incorporating the famous City Gate in the wording.

International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Jacques Rogge said: "I would like to congratulate the Nanjing 2014 Organising Committee on the youthful design you have chosen.

"This colourful and contemporary logo is a perfect symbol for Nanjing and China as a whole.

"The emblem represents your passion for sports and culture and the welcoming city gates symbolise the warmth and friendliness of the Nanjing people.

"The combination of China's rich history and its bright modern outlook are clearly present."

The Nanjing 2014 Organising Committee invited people around world to participate in the Olympic Emblem Design Competition and received over 4,000 designs from both home and abroad.


The winning design came from Li Min, director of School of Design, Central Academy of Fine Arts and his group, following approval of the design from the IOC.

Rogge said: "The logo helps give voice to the identity of Nanjing 2014 that will remain at the heart of the Youth Olympic Games.

"It true represents the energy of the city and the nation, and it is this vibrancy that will inspire young people around the world to join in the celebrations in 2014.

"It will become a symbol of Nanjing 2014's vision and its legacy will remain in the memories of all those that experience what will certainly be a spectacular games.

"Above all, this emblem embodies the Olympic values of excellence, friendship and respect."

Nanjing won the right to host the 2014 Youth Olympic Games after they saw off competition from Poznan in Poland at the 122nd IOC Session in Vancouver in February 2010.

The event will be held form August 16 to 28, 2014, and follows on from the highly successful inaugural Youth Olympic Games which took place in Singapore last year.

Innsbruck in Austria are set to host the first ever Winter Youth Olympics in January next year.

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