British rockers Muse may have penned the official anthem for the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London, but “Survival” isn’t the only game in town. Other songs specially commissioned for the occasion are forthcoming from Elton John vs. Pnau, Delphic, Chemical Brothers, and Dizzee Rascal.

While that quartet of tunes has been formally sanctioned for Games of the XXX Olympiad, today Pet Shop Boys have unofficially thrown their bolo hats into the ring(s) with “Winner.” The first single from Elysium, the duo’s new album out on September 18, has a formal, ceremonial feel to it. Besides lyrical associations, there’s no missing the Olympics tie to the single’s cover art, which depicts a medal stand. (Platinum, Silver, and Bronze, perhaps?)

I can’t help but think that Pet Shop Boys submitted “Winner” for consideration to the London 2012 Committee, only for the vanguards of British pop to be passed over for the likes of Muse and Dizzee Rascal. But as Neil Tennant sings, “We came so far just to compete.” That’s right, chaps, keep that upper lip stiff. “Winner” is still a regal work of pop art.

Artists who opt to have their music used during the Olympics won’t exactly come out winners, The Quietus reports. They’re reportedly being offered a paltry £250 (about $400) for the opportunity to be heard at the various venues where the London 2012 Games will be held.

Pet Shop Boys – “Winner” is out tomorrow. Two digital bundles featuring bonus tracks and remixes arrive on August 7.