Brazil hosted the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.
The Games took place from 5 to 21 August 2016 and were the first Summer Olympics held in South America. Rio de Janeiro was selected as host city by the International Olympic Committee in 2009, defeating Madrid, Tokyo, and Chicago in the final selection process. Events were held across several venues, including the Maracanã Stadium and facilities in Barra da Tijuca.
The 2016 Olympics featured more than 11,000 athletes representing 207 National Olympic Committees. The program included the return of golf after a long absence and the debut of rugby sevens. Kosovo and South Sudan competed for the first time as Olympic teams, while the Refugee Olympic Team also made its debut.
Brazil’s hosting came during a period of severe economic and political difficulty, and the preparations drew debate over cost, public services, and construction. The Games were followed by the 2016 Summer Paralympics in Rio. The Olympic cauldron was lit at Maracanã during the opening ceremony, which celebrated Brazilian history and culture.