Sebastian's Corner

By Jordan Carey

When one thinks of the Olympics, I’m sure the first thoughts are of specific athletes, team, or moments. People may also think of the symbols of the games such as the stadiums, cities, rings, medals, and flame. Shortly after these though, many will think of some of the sponsors that have for the most part become seamlessly ingrained with the games. Whether it be Morgan Freeman narrating Olympic commercials for Visa or Kobe Bryant releasing special Nike shoes for the Olympics, many corporate companies have become part of the games in the last twenty to thirty years. 

One of the major corporate players involved with the Olympics since the 1976 Montreal Games is McDonald’s. McDonald’s has provided food for athletes and fans as well as having many Olympics-related contests and specials at their American restaurants. For the 2012 London games, McDonald’s has opened the biggest McDonald’s in the world in the Olympic Park. While many people seem to think this is a cool concept and will definitely bring a large amount of revenue to the London Games, the move has been met with some controversy and skepticism.                                                                    

McDonald’s Flagship Olympic Restaurant in London  (Photo: McDonalds/Flickr )

Jacques Rogge, the president of the International Olympic Committee, has questioned whether it is appropriate for the fast food giant to remain one of the Olympics biggest sponsors when there is a global obesity crisis. According to CNBC, in the four years leading up to the London Games, the IOC has made more than $950 million from its 11 global sponsors (which include both McDonald’s and Coca Cola). Mr. Rogge has expressed some satisfaction with McDonald’s introduction of many healthier options in the past decade. While the obesity epidemic is a major issue all over the globe, Rogge has pointed to monetary reasons as a major reason why McDonald’s will undoubtedly remain a global sponsor for the foreseeable future.

While McDonald’s is undoubtedly not the healthiest option anywhere, they have made strides in recent years to serve more than just a super size French fry and Big Mac. It also remains one of the fastest and cheapest options for food anywhere so it is understandable why the IOC would want to partner with such a well known brand. I personally can remember specials at McDonald’s that advertised the 1992 Dream Team. That is pretty good product recognition for a four year old and I’m sure this advertising has helped the Olympics appeal to many who are more interested in a Happy Meal than whether or not Andre Iguodala deserves a spot on the Men’s National Team (the answer is yes). 

While in the past, McDonalds has given away cups featuring various athletes, this year they will be only giving away a free Coca Cola glass themed to various sports with the purchase of a value meal.

Jordan Carey is a rising 3L who will be starting his McDonald’s Olympic cup collection ASAP.

Do you have an opinion on the McDonald’s Olympic Sponsorship? Comment below.