Visiting the divisioning session with Team Brazil on Sunday, Romario and Zico announced that they have taken on a new role as ambassadors for Special Olympics, committed to using their profile and influence to promote respect, acceptance and inclusion for people with intellectual disabilities worldwide.

Both ambassadors jumped straight into their new role! Within minutes of the announcement Romario and Zico pulled out their shoelaces and tied up their new ones as part of the Special Olympics Wear the Laces campaign.  Elsewhere at the Hellinikon Olympics stadium, South African football legend and Special Olympics Ambassador Luca Radabe was busy doing the same with Team South Africa.

The three legends gave athletes a few tips on training and techniques. And of course the athletes were delighted and awed to get the chance to have their photo taken with their national football heroes.

"Today I join the Special Olympics family and I am proud to Wear the Laces for Special Olympics" said Romario, "Unfortunately not enough people realize the impact that our movement has for athletes and their families. I believe that there is nothing more powerful than sport to help us create a new world where everyone is accepted and respected regardless of their abilities or disabilities; a community of respect and love."

"By wearing the laces," added Romario "I feel tied to my special friends and focused on my job in helping them reach their full potential."

Join your heroes Romario, Zico and Luca Radabe in wearing the laces for Special Olympics. Purchase your own laces and find out more by visiting www.wearthelaces.org.