LONDON (AP) — After four unsuccessful Olympic bids, Istanbul will enter the race to host the 2020 Games.

Turkish government sports official Mehmet Atalay said Tuesday the country has decided to launch another Olympic bid and believes the city’s chances are much stronger this time.

Istanbul mounted failed bids for the 2000, 2004, 2008 and 2012 Olympics. It sat out the race for the 2016 Games, which were awarded last month to Rio de Janeiro.

Cities in Japan and Italy have expressed interest in the 2020 Games, and Dubai and Qatar are also considering bids.

Bid submissions to the IOC are due in 2011. The IOC will select the 2020 host city in 2013.

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