The vivid colours and graphics of these Games
did not extend to the torch, which was made
from spun aluminium with a brass finish and a
leather handle. The torch bears the image of
the Memorial Coliseum, the venue for the 1984
and 1932 Games.
The relay was controversial as the US sold
the rights to run each kilometre for $3,000,
displeasing the Greeks. In a reversal of the US
led boycott of the Moscow Games, the USSR
withdrew from the Games two hours into the relay.