The International Olympic Committee (IOC) today named Lillehammer, Norway, as the host city of the 2nd Winter Youth Olympic Games in 2016.

Lillehammer, which hosted the 1994 Olympic Winter Games, was elected by the IOC members via postal vote, the deadline for which was 5 December. As the only city in contention, Lillehammer needed - and received - a majority to obtain victory.

"We are excited to be going back to Lillehammer, which hosted unforgettable Winter Games in 1994," said IOC President Jacques Rogge. "The city, the government and Norwegian National Olympic Committee have shown a great desire and commitment to hosting these Games, and we are confident that Lillehammer will provide a world-class experience for the young athletes in just over four years' time."

The Youth Olympic Games are the culmination of the IOC's determination to reach out to young people. Far more than merely being about high-level competition, the Games are also a platform on which young people can learn about the Olympic values and the benefits of sport, while sharing their experiences with people from around the globe.

Innsbruck, Austria, will host the 1st Winter Youth Olympic Games from 13th to 22nd January 2012. Singapore hosted the first Summer edition in 2010, while Nanjing, China, will host the 2nd Summer edition in 2014.

For more information on the Youth Olympic Games, please visit: www.olympic.org/yog

Contributed by the IOC/FIS