Countries

The Countries Competing at the XXIX Olympiad

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Countries at a Glance

The Games of the XXIX Olympiad are expected to draw more than 10,000 competitors representing 205 nations, an increase of four from the number that participated at the 2004 Athens Games.

At the first Modern Olympics in 1896, also in Athens, a total of 14 nations competed, including the United States, Australia, Chile and 11 European countries.

Italy

Italy has been awarded the final gold medals during the Closing Ceremony at the past two Olympics. In Athens, it was for marathon victor Stefano Baldini (pictured); in Torino, it was for cross-country skier Giorgio di Centa, who won the men's 50km gold.

Australia

Australia has competed at every modern Olympics, playing host to the Summer Games in 1956 (Melbourne) and 2000 (Sydney). With a population of only a few million more than the city of Beijing, the nation of Australia ranks 10th in the all-time Olympic medal standings.