Rio de Janiero to host 2016 Olympics

12 April 2012

Rio de Janeiro will host the 2016 Olympics, it was announced today.

The Brazilian city beat off competition from Madrid, Chicago and Tokyo to land the sporting extravaganza.

The decision was announced by International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Jacques Rogge in Copenhagen.

The announcement, which sees the Games go to South America for the first time, sparked wild celebrations in Denmark and Brazil.

Mr Rogge said: "All four projects are of the highest quality - thank you for your hard work, energy and commitment. But in every competition there can only be one winner."

Athlete Denise Lewis, who won gold at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, said it was the right decision. She said: "I think it is fantastic.

"Every Olympiad, you want the Olympic movement to move forward and venture into uncharted territory."

Chicago had been favourite to land the Games, with its odds bolstered after US President Barack Obama flew in to the Danish capital to help with the final bid presentation.

IOC delegates made their picks during the day, with the city receiving the fewest votes eliminated round by round until one candidate secured a majority.

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