Sports venue design company Populous has been appointed to the design team tasked with creating the main stadium for the 2014 Winter Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia.

Populous will join Russian contractor Engeocom, and Botta Management as part of the design consortium responsible for the delivery of the 40,000-capacity venue.

The announcement follows Populous' work in producing the master plan for competition and non-competition venues and facilities in Sochi,

John Barrow, Populous' senior principal, said: "The main stadium design, in addition to the venue overlay plan we've prepared for the 2014 Games, delivers a wonderful vision for the winter Olympics, and a lasting sustainable legacy for Sochi.

"Its sweeping form responds to both its coastal location and mountainous backdrop, whilst its crystalline skin engages with its surroundings by day, and provides an iconic representation of the colour and spectacle of the games when illuminated at night."

The stadium in Winter Olympics mode will be used for the Opening and Closing and Medal Ceremonies in Sochi. Following the Games, it will become a football venue for local and national teams.