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Beijing Winter Olympics 2022
China

As Beijing 2022 Games approach, Chinese superfan shares his Olympic souvenir obsession

  • Zhang Wenquan first caught the Olympic bug when watching the Sydney 2000 Games, then went on to volunteer at the Beijing Summer Games in 2008
  • The construction worker estimates he’s spent US$62,800 on 5,000 souvenirs and he is already looking to Paris 2024 to build on his collection

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Olympic superfan Zhang Wenquan shows his collection of Olympic souvenirs at home in Beijing. Crammed on every available surface is Olympic memorabilia. Photo: AFP
Agence France-Presse

Crammed on every available surface in Zhang Wenquan’s crowded Beijing home is Olympic memorabilia – from mascots and torches to flags, banners, clothes and cuddly toys.

The Chinese superfan scours the internet for rare souvenirs and snaps selfies several times a week by the countdown clock to the 2022 Winter Games in the capital.
Beijing will become the first city to host both the Summer and Winter Olympics when the event kicks off in February – a dream come true for the construction firm worker.

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Chinese Olympics superfan spends thousands on Games memorabilia

Chinese Olympics superfan spends thousands on Games memorabilia

Zhang’s interest was first piqued when he became glued to the 2000 Sydney Olympics as a high school student.

“I saw China win many gold medals and felt inspired,” the 35-year-old said.

When the Games came to Beijing in 2008, he worked as an official volunteer – a life-changing experience that sparked his passion for collecting souvenirs.

Wearing a 2022 Winter Olympics scarf and sweatshirt emblazoned with its mascot – plus a headband reading “Come on, Winter Olympics!” – Zhang shows off the array of merchandise covering his home.

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