The Truth Behind Marathon Cigarettes And Their Alleged Olympic Connection

As the world gears up for the 2024 Paris Olympics, a wave of nostalgia and curiosity has revived an old rumor about Marathon cigarettes. The claim suggests that this particular brand was the "official cigarette of the 1984 Olympics," a notion that has sparked debates and discussions across social media platforms. But how much truth is there to this assertion, and what does it reveal about advertising and sponsorship in sports?

Shirley Ito, a librarian at the LA84 Foundation, confirmed to Snopes that neither Marathon nor any other cigarette brand was listed among the official sponsors of the 1984 Olympics. This revelation not only debunks the claim but also sheds light on the evolving landscape of advertising regulations and the relationship between tobacco companies and major sporting events.

What You Will Learn

The claim that Marathon cigarettes were the official cigarette of the 1984 Olympics is false.
The origins of the rumor can be traced back to misleading advertisements shared on social media.
Tobacco companies have a complicated history with Olympic sponsorship, often using indirect advertising strategies.
Understanding the role of advertising in sports can help consumers navigate misleading claims.