Olympic host cities are chosen years in advance by a vote of committee members.

The longer version

Cities bid for the right to stage the games, then members of the international committee vote in a secret ballot, usually seven years or more before the event. The long lead time exists because venues, transport and accommodation must be built or upgraded, and because the organising body needs years to plan the programme.

Ballots run in rounds, with the lowest-placed candidate eliminated each time until one city has a majority, which means an early front-runner often loses. Bidding has repeatedly been dogged by cost overruns and by referendums in which residents reject the plans, and several editions drew only one or two credible bids. The long gap also leaves hosts exposed to economic change they cannot foresee.

Where this entry sits

Facts here look at the rules, equipment and odd histories behind familiar sports and games, from balls and rackets to cards, boards and playing fields. Expect small details about scoring quirks, stadium design and the long story of the Olympic Games. The full list sits on the Sports and Games page, where every entry is listed in order.