At a special ceremony, officials claimed the Torch celebrates “diversity and equality” and will act as an iconic symbol which will spread the spirit of the Games and the Paralympic values throughout Brazil.

Created using the same design concept as the Olympic Torch, with both Torches aiming to illustrate equality, the differing characters of Olympic and Paralympic athletes are claimed to be revealed.

The Paralympic version has “sinous curves” to represent the highs and lows in the life of a Paralympic athlete, acknowledging an athlete's determination and achievements throughout various stages of their lives.

Additionally, the quadrangular shape is stated as referring to the four Paralympic values – courage, determination, inspiration and equality - which are written in braille on the torch.

“The Paralympic Games are an opportunity for education and legacy and the torch radiates these values,” said Andrew Parsons, President of the Brazilian Paralympic Committee (CPB) and vice-president of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC).

“The Paralympic Games are the biggest event in the world for producing changes in society.

“With all the symbolism of the torch, this is the moment to involve the whole nation, because, although the Games will be in Rio, they are for all of Brazil.

“We have a strong Paralympic presence in all regions of the country.”

The Torch Relay route was also revealed with São Paulo set to be the first of five cities to welcome the event on September 1.

The relay will then head to Joinville in the south, Natal in the north-east and Belém in the north before visiting capital Brasília on September 5.

Rio 2016 state the decision to pass through the cities, one per day, will allow each of the five regions of Brazil to be represented, with a regional flame set to be lit at every venue.

The lighting of a virtual Heritage Flame will also take place in the British town of Stoke Mandeville, birthplace of the Paralympic Games, on September 2, before all six flames will combine to form the Paralympic Flame in Rio de Janeiro on September 6.

The Flame will then be carried around Rio de Janeiro on the last two days of the relay, before being used to light the Paralympic Cauldron at the Opening Ceremony in the Maracanã Stadium on September 7.

"We are in a special moment on our journey towards the Games, a crucial stage in the transformation of Rio de Janeiro,” said Carlos Nuzman, Rio 2016 President.

“And our athletes are examples of the strength of will power.

“We will put on spectacular Games, which will mark an era.”

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