The Road to Olympia Mount production team has unveiled the first images of the 25th-season laurel wreath, a special edition that underwent months of conceptualization and meticulous craftsmanship. This year’s design is said to be the most distinctive and meaningful version yet, both technically and artistically.
According to designer Do Van Tri, the upgraded wreath marks a significant milestone for the show. For the first time, Road to Olympia Mount’s laurel wreath features state-of-the-art jewelry plating technology, symbolizing intelligence, innovation, and the spirit of Vietnam.
“The design draws inspiration from the ancient Greek and Roman symbols of victory and wisdom, but reimagined to celebrate modern Vietnamese intellect and national pride” , Van Tri explained. He added that this year’s wreath holds even greater significance as it commemorates several national milestones in 2025 - the 50th anniversary of Vietnam’s reunification, the 80th National Day (September 2), and the 25th anniversary of Olympia’s broadcast debut. “Personally, this is also my 11th year working with the program”, Van Tri shared.
The 2025 laurel wreath retains its handcrafted brass base. Still, this year’s version has been enhanced with an 18 carat gold vacuum-coated (PVD - Physical Vapor Deposition) finish, topped with a nano-protective layer. This cutting-edge process, widely used in high-end jewelry, produces a deep gold tone with brilliant light reflection, while also providing scratch resistance and oxidation protection. Unlike traditional electroplating, this method is more durable, eco-friendly, and provides a long-lasting polished finish.
In terms of aesthetics, the design embraces minimalism and openness. The wreath’s structure has been refinedto create a more open, flowing form rather than a tightly closed loop. The laurel leaves are arranged in alternating layers to create a sense of dynamic movement, symbolizing growth, renewal, and the forward-thinking spirit of Vietnam’s new generation. Each leaf is meticulously sculpted with raised veins and beveled edges, producing multi-dimensional light effects that evoke both strength and vitality.
The most challenging part of the crafting process is capturing the soft, natural curves of real laurel leaves in solid metal.
Designer Van Tri admitted: “The greatest challenge was capturing the softness and natural curves of real laurel leaves in rigid metal while ensuring each vein aligned perfectly with the golden reflection”.
The most striking detail of this year’s design is the five-pointed golden star, inspired by the Vietnamese national flag, elegantly embedded within the wreath. This subtle yet powerful feature represents both victory and patriotic devotion. “It symbolizes a message to the champion and to Vietnam’s young generation”, Van Tri said, “True glory comes not only from winning but from the journey of self-improvement. Always let your love for the nation and your desire to contribute guide you forward”.
The champion who will wear this exquisite wreath will be revealed at the live Grand Finale of Road to Olympia Mount, airing at 8:30 AM on Sunday, October 26, 2025, on VTV3. Stay tuned!
