SAM Magazine-London, Apr. 6, 2011-The International Olympic Committee (IOC) today confirmed the inclusion of ski halfpipe for both men and women and women's ski jumping among six new events on the program of the Olympic Winter Games in Sochi, Russia, in 2014. The other events are the biathlon mixed relay, figure skating team event and luge team relay.

The key factors in the IOC decision included whether the changes would increase universality, gender equity and youth appeal, and, in general, add value to the Games. "The inclusion of these events on the Olympic Winter Games program is sure to be appreciated by athletes and sports fans alike," said IOC President Jacques Rogge. "These are exciting, entertaining events that perfectly complement the existing events on the sports program, bring added appeal and increase the number of women participating at the Games."

Five other events-ski and snowboard slopestyle, for both men and women, and Alpine team parallel competition are subject to a further study. A decision on the inclusion of these five events will be made within the coming weeks.

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