When are the Rio 2016 Olympic Games?

It's hard to believe that four years have passed since London 2012 - but it's time to get ready for the Olympic Games again.

Now that 2016 has begun we can officially get excited - but if the event has crept up on you a little bit and you can’t believe we’re once again in an Olympic year, here’s what you need to know.

When and where are the Games being held?

The games are being held from August 5 until August 21. These will be the first Olympic Games to be held in South America.

How many athletes will be taking part?

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It is estimated that 10,500 athletes from 206 countries will participate in events across the Games.

When are the test events?

Staged across four competition zones, the 45 test events actually started in 2014. The final wave of test events will take place in May, and includes rugby, synchronised swimming and athletics. For more information about the test events, click here.

Can I still get tickets for the Games?

Authorised re-sellers are selling tickets across the globe. Visit the Rio 2016 website to find out the approved re-seller for your region. For Great Britain, CoSport is offering ticket-only deals as well as packages.

How many events will there be?

306 medal events will be held across the 17-day tournament. There will be 161 men’s events, 136 women’s events and nine mixed events. Which is your favourite sport, out of the 42 that will be contested, to watch?

Which cities will host the Olympic football matches?

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Belo Horizonte, Brasilia, Manaus, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador and Sao Paulo.

I’m going to an Olympic event - what else can I do while I’m visiting Rio?

They don’t call it the “Marvellous City” for nothing! Copacabana Beach, Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain are only some of the sights you can take in during your Olympic trip.

Now, let’s all get excited!

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