LONDON - Buckingham Palace says Queen Elizabeth II and her husband Prince Philip will open the 2012 Olympics this summer.
The royal couple will perform this ceremonial role at the 80,000-seat Olympic Stadium when the games begin on July 27.
Officials said Wednesday the couple will also open the Paralympic Games on Aug. 29.
The announcement had been expected because British royals have long been strong supporters of the Olympics.
The queen also opened the 1976 Games in Canada, where she is the head of state.
