11 Nov 2009

Istanbul will have another go at Olympics

9:26 am on 11 November 2009

After four unsuccessful Olympic bids, Istanbul will enter the race to host the 2020 Games.

The Turkish government sports official Mehmet Atalay says the country has decided to launch another Olympic bid and believes the city's chances are much stronger this time.

Istanbul mounted failed attempts for the 2000, 2004, 2008 and 2012 Olympics.

It sat out the race for the 2016 Games, which were awarded last month to Rio de Janeiro.

Cities in Japan and Italy have expressed interest in the 2020 Games, and Dubai and Qatar are also considering bids. South Africa and other African countries could also enter candidates.