What is COBI?

What is COBI? The story behind Barcelona's iconic 1992 Olympic mascot

In the summer of 1992, the world turned its eyes to Barcelona. Not only because of its impressive Olympic Games, but also because of the emergence of a figure whose unique style and easygoing charisma earned him a special place in everyone's hearts: COBI.

COBI was the official mascot of the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games, designed by Valencian artist Javier Mariscal. Unlike traditional mascots, COBI broke new ground with a cubist, modern, and unconventional design. It represented a Catalan shepherd dog, but reinterpreted with a fresh style that captured the innovative, Mediterranean spirit of Olympic Barcelona.

Beyond his role as a mascot, COBI became a cultural phenomenon. He starred in animated series, advertising campaigns, and an extensive line of collectible products that still spark nostalgia and interest among collectors around the world.

Its impact wasn't just aesthetic. COBI represented a new way of understanding Olympic mascots: with personality, creativity, and a narrative of its own. To this day, it remains a beloved symbol of a golden age for Barcelona and for an entire generation.