As the 2016 Olympic Games edge closer, we highlight the things you need to know ahead of the world’s biggest sporting event this summer.
Where and when?
The Olympics will hold in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil from Friday, August 5 to Saturday, August 21.
Why Brazil?
Rio won the final round of voting (held in October 2009) by 66 votes against the 32 votes given to Madrid, the other finalist, after Chicago and Tokyo were eliminated in the first two rounds.
The deciding factors included South America never having hosted an Olympics, and the regeneration the Games would bring to Rio, Brazil and South America.
Official mascot
The official mascot, Vinicius, named after musician Vinicius de Moraes carries design traits of mammals and represents Brazilian wildlife.
How many centres?
There are 33 venues in the host city and at five venues in the cities of São Paulo (Brazil’s largest city), Belo Horizonte, Salvador, Brasília (Brazil’s capital), and Manaus.
How many countries and athletes will participate?
More than 10,500 athletes from 207 National Olympic Committees (NOCs) will compete in Brazil.
Any first timers?
Yes. Kosovo and South Sudan are scheduled to take part for the first time.
How many events and sports?
Athletes will compete in 306 events in 28 sports.
Are there any new sports this year?
Golf returns after 112 years and rugby after 92 years.
Refugee athletes
Due to the European migrant crisis and other reasons, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) will allow athletes to compete as Independent Olympians under the Olympic Flag.
Refugees were ineligible to compete in previous Olympic Games, but 10 got the nod to appear in Rio.
Who are the star athletes expected?
Usain Bolt (Athletes, Jamaica), Neymar (Football, Brazil), Roger Federer (Tennis, Switzerland), Serena Williams (Tennis, United States), Chad le Clos (Swimming, South Africa).
