Travel News

Airbnb has confirmed it will act as the official “alternative accommodation services supplier” for the upcoming 2016 Olympic Games.

The games will take place in Rio de Janeiro next summer.

It is the first time the company has signed on as an official partner for the Olympics.

Although it is thought some 100,000 international guests were hosted by Airbnb for the World Cup in Brazil last summer. at

“We are extremely proud to be partnering with the Rio 2016 Olympic Committee to officially bring home sharing to the Games,” said Joe Gebbia, co-founder of Airbnb.

“With visitors traveling from around the world, Rio residents get to serve as diplomats to their home country, hosting a global audience with real, authentic Brazilian hospitality.

“Together with Rio 2016, our hosts will ensure visitors have the opportunity to get to know the heart of Rio as well as enjoy the spectacle of the Olympic Games.”

The Games are expected to see an estimated 380,000 foreign spectators, with Airbnb set to offer around 20,000 listings.