They're dancing on the sand after a 'sacred day' for Rio
RIO DE JANEIRO -- Nearly 50,000 people cheered in celebration when Rio de Janeiro was announced as host of the 2016 Olympics, jumping and shouting in a Carnival-like party on Copacabana beach.
A huge roar was heard at the famed beach the moment International Olympic Committee President Jacques Rogge said the words "Rio de Janeiro" to announce the winner in Copenhagen on Friday.
As popular President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and soccer great Pele celebrated in Denmark, Rio citizens raised their arms to celebrate on Copacabana.
Silva called the win a "sacred day" as he was interviewed by Brazilian reporters in Copenhagen. Brazil's passion, he said, helped Rio win.
"We presented a heart, a soul, and the passion of Brazil's people," he said.
The beaming Brazilian leader, who sobbed later in a press conference, said the result was so important it would be OK if he were to die now.
"I confess to you if I die right now my life would have been worth it," Silva said. "No one can now doubt the strength of Brazil's economy, it's social greatness, and our ability to present a plan."
The party in Rio was expected to go on well into the night.
Rio finally won the bid after failed attempts in 1936, 2004 and 2012.
The Games will be the first held in South America and will take place by one of the most impressive backdrops -- Rio's stunning beaches and famous landmarks, including the Sugar Loaf mountain and the Christ the Redeemer statue. AP