IOC say refugee will carry Olympic torch in Athens

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has revealed that a refugee will carry the Olympic torch in Greece and refugees will march behind the Olympic flag during the opening ceremony for the Rio Games.

IOC president Thomas Bach on Thursday visited the Open Reception Centre for refugees in Athens, where he was show how a donation of 2million US Dollars from the organisation's emergency fund is aiding humanitarian efforts.

Bach announced that a refugee will be selected to carry the Olympic torch through the centre on the Greek leg of the relay.

And honorary IOC president Jacques Rogge, who joined Bach on the visit, said: "We want to contribute with the values of sport. Sport can heal many wounds.

"Sport can bring them hope, can help to forge their ideas and to integrate in society.  Ultimately it brings them hope and dreams. Sport is not the solution but it can make a great contribution."

The IOC also announced that a 'team' of refugees will follow the Olympic flag during the opening ceremony at the Maracana Stadium on August 21.

A process to identify athletes without a country to represent has already been started by the IOC.