IOC starting search for 2014 Summer Youth Olympics host

LAUSANNE, Switzerland (AP) -- The International Olympic Committee has opened the bidding process for the 2014 Summer Youth Olympic Games.

The IOC said Monday it has written to all 205 national Olympic committees seeking host city nominations.

The initial deadline for submission of candidates is February, with official bids to be entered by next July. The IOC executive board will select a shortlist in October, and IOC members will vote on the host city in February 2010 during the Winter Olympics in Vancouver.

Even before the current global economic downturn, the IOC said the Youth Games should be staged in existing stadiums and venues and not burden the host city with new construction costs.

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