Winter Olympics in Russia?

Looks like the 2014 Winter Olympics have a location: Sochi, Russia. It marks the first time since 1994 that the games in either season have gone to a city I wasn't aware existed. Amazingly, this is the first time the Winter games have ever been held in Russia or the former Soviet Union. This is interesting, as when you think of Russia, you think of winter and also their stellar record in the Winter Olympics. Hopefully it will go better than the last time Russia hosted an Olympics.

It is another sign of Russia's return to relevance on the international stage. Much of this relevance is in part due to Vladimir Putin. Without going too deep (after all, this isn't August Prairie), this is a mixed blessing, as increased economic stability and international relevance has come along with a return to the age old Russian tradition of autocratic control of society.

Nevertheless, it is a major victory for Russia, and a chance for them to show themselves off to the world in 2014. I'm sure a crappy logo and lame anthropomorphic animal mascots will be forthcoming. And in two years, here's hoping the IOC picks Chicago for the 2016 games. At least they have a decent logo.