Rio de Janeiro celebrates after winning the race to host the 2016 Olympic Games, beating Madrid in the final round of voting.

Be the first time that the Games will be held in South America.

Around 50,000 people erupted in joy at Copacabana beach, where it was announced by IOC president Jacques Rogge in Denmark.

"Carioca", as known to local residents, jumped and clapped in a carnival-like atmosphere in the famous Brazil attraction.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva said: "All the people who thought they had no capacity to govern this country will now learn that we can host the Olympics.

"There is much work ahead of us and we will start work early."The Brazilian people are good, generous, and the country deserve it. The world has acknowledged that it is time for Brazil."

Many residents hope will improve life in Rio, when the Olympics come to town."The hope is that all security and transport to improve the city because the daily life in Rio is very difficult," said Ricardo Chaves, 47 years old accountant.

Athlete Denise Lewis, who won gold at the 2000 Summer Olympics, said the offer for Rio was the right decision.

He told Sky News: "I think it's fantastic. All Olympics, wants the Olympic Movement to promote and go into uncharted territory.

In the last round of the vote, polled 66 votes River, compared with 32 in Madrid.