The International Olympic Committee has just chosen Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to host the 2016 Summer Olympics and Paralympics Games. Brazil will be the first South American country to host an Olympic Games. The contingents of Brazil and Spain gave impassioned speeches and spectacular presentations of their respective countries during the 121st IOC Session and XIII Olympic Congress in Copenhagen. Madrid had the backing of the Spanish king whilst Rio de Janeiro had Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Making his speech in the Bella Center, King Juan Carlos emphasized the importance of tradition along with the theme of keeping the human touch to the Olympic proceedings. Spain last held a Summer Olympics Games in 1992. The city was Barcelona.
Photo: REUTERS