The Sochi committee for the 2014 games exults after learning its bid won. Photo courtesy IOC.

The International Olympic Committee voted yesterday to name the Black Sea resort of Sochi, Russia, as host of the Winter Olympics in 2014. Russia triumphed over finalists Austria and South Korea.

Dmitry Chernychenko, CEO of the Sochi 2014 Bid Committee, described the election as "a key moment in Russian history." He added the 2014 Games will be "a catalyst for our young democracy. They will bring Russia nearer to the international society".