1992 Barcelona Olympic Games Cobi second hand Pin (Loose)

Cobi – The Olympic mascot that redefined design

Cobi was introduced in 1992 as the official mascot of the Barcelona Olympic Games, immediately standing out for its bold and unconventional design. Unlike traditional mascots, Cobi embraced abstraction and artistic freedom inspired by contemporary illustration.

Designed by Spanish artist Javier Mariscal, Cobi is a stylized dog with angular lines and a deliberately naive appearance. This visual choice reflected Barcelona’s cultural ambition and creative identity.

Rather than symbolizing athletic power, Cobi represents friendliness and openness. His relaxed posture and everyday situations made him accessible and relatable.

Visually minimalist, Cobi broke away from realism. His design echoed European graphic trends of the late 20th century, blending art, comics, and design.

Culturally, Cobi became inseparable from the success of the Barcelona Games. He appeared across media, merchandise, and animation, extending his influence beyond sport.

Thematically, Cobi embodied a shift in Olympic representation, focusing on celebration and cultural expression rather than solemn grandeur.

Cobi remains one of the most iconic Olympic mascots ever created. A symbol of innovation, creativity, and a defining moment in modern Olympic history.