LONDON, Aug 13 (Bernama) -- In yet another display of a fun, colourful and festive party, Rio De Janeiro officially took over the reins of the next Olympics from Britain, who will continue to celebrate their euphoric achievement as a host and in medal haul.
Starting with the parade of the participating countries marching into the centre of the Olympic Stadium, the after-show party continued with British modern art performances.
As a mark of appreciation to thousand of volunteers, who had made the Games ran smoothly, five selected athletes, including Malaysian diver Leong Mun Yee, took the centre stage to present flowers to five volunteers.
In a symbolic handover, the Olympic flag carrying the familiar five interlocking rings was lowered.
London mayor Boris Johnson then handed over the Olympic flag to International Olympic Committee president Jacques Rogge who then passed it on to Rio de Janeiro mayor Eduardo Paes.
The Brazilian anthem was played and the flag was raised to symbolise the next host of the Summer Olympic Games.
Themed 'Transformation and Passion', it will be the first time a South American country will play host to the Olympics.
"The 'Cariocas' (the people of Rio de Janeiro) and Brazilians in general are so excited," chief executive officer of the Rio 2016 Organising Committee for the Olympics and Paralympic Games, Leonardo Gryner told a news conference earlier.
The Brazilian then performed their country's mix of culture, arts and dances, including a special appearance of football legend Pele.
"Four years from now, the 31st Olympics will continue in Brazil," Rogge said in his speech.
The petals that formed the 2012 Olympic cauldron was then lowered and extinguished, signalling the closing of the 16-day Olympics.
Host Britain secured the third spot in the overall medal tally in the 2012 Olympics with 29 gold, 17 silver and 10 bronze to better their position in the 2008 Beijing Games.
Four years ago, Britain were fourth with 19, 13, 15 behind Russia, the United States and host China.
The U.S., however, beat China in the London Games, by becoming the overall champions with 46, 29, 29, leaving China a distant second with 38, 27, 22.
From Zulhilmi Supaat -- BERNAMA
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