Rio Sponsor Offers Unique Contest - Rio Roundup

(ATR) Airbnb wants to give Olympic gymnastics fans a chance to live at the arena.

The Rio 2016 accommodation sponsor is offering up a room in a converted luxury box at the gymnastics arena for the Olympic Games. The winner will be able to live in the room during the gymnastics test event in Rio from April 16-22.

In addition to Olympic lodging, the winners will meet and train with the Brazilian Olympic gymnastics team, and participate in other behind-the-scenes perks.

"They'll be able to watch the event from their own room, and of course they will sleep there," Leonardo Tristao, Airbnb manager for Brazil, said to the AP. "We are taking people to live a unique experience, which is to sleep in an Olympic venue and feel the whole atmosphere."

In addition to hotel rooms, Airbnb will be one of the official accommodation partners for the Rio 2016 Games. The organizing committee has encouraged Olympic visitors to book accommodations with the short-term rental company, in order to get a true Rio experience.

Airbnb offered a similar promotion ahead of the 2014 World Cup, allowing football fans to spend one night at the Maracana Stadium in Rio.

"I have no idea how much anyone would charge for this experience," Tristao added. "It's very unique."

New Rio 2016 Tickets Available

Over one million new Rio 2016 tickets are on the marketplace.

Rio 2016 introduced tickets for the Olympic football tournament, basketball finals, and Opening ceremonies on April 14. The release of the tickets coincided with the Olympic football draw, which took place at the Maracana Stadium.

Once the release was finalized 5.7 million of the 7.4 million tickets were available to the public. The Olympic ticket program has seen lagging ticket sales, although organizers say the slow sales are due to the marketplace of Brazil, not a lack of interest.

As of April 13, 3.5 million tickets have been sold. The final 1.7 million tickets are being held for contingencies and as organizers determine the final capacity for many venues. According to Rio 2016 communications director Mario Andrada, the contingency tickets will be available for sale as venue capacity is finalized and other clearances are made.

Written by Aaron Bauer in Rio de Janeiro

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