Beijing is the first city in the world to host both the summer and winter editions of the Olympics. The design of the 2022 torch has a line similar to the cauldron of the 2008 Olympic Games, which resembled a giant parchment.

The line of the torch expresses dynamism and vitality, with a spiral construction reminiscent of a fluttering ribbon where the Olympic flame resides. In the central section, the dynamism of the red line represents the tortuousness of the Great Wall and the ski slopes of the Games, together with humanity’s quest for light, peace and excellence. The use of red and silver is a metaphor for fire and ice, conveying the idea of how the torch should bring ‘light and warmth to the world of ice and snow’.

In view of the serious and complex situation related to the Covid-19 pandemic and theneed to protect the safety of staff and athletes, the organising committee cancelledticket sales to the public, allowing only invited guests to watch the competitions and trials. This edition saw the introduction of seven new events - women’s monobob, freestyle ski big air (men’s and women’s) and mixed team relay events in short track speed skating, ski jumping, freestyle ski aerials and snowboard cross.

The Beijing 2022 Olympic Winter Games were held in February 2022, coinciding with the Chinese New Year (Spring Festival), China’s most important holiday. Local residents welcomed athletes from around the world, encouraging them to enjoy the Chinese New Year festivities, the majestic landscape and rich cultures of Beijing, Yanqing and Zhangjiakou.