The imaging giants will serve as official photographic agency and official imagery supplier to the IOC, adding to a partnership that has already spanned 25 years.

All Getty Images imagery and services will also be utilised on the new Olympic Channel.

This underlines the company's "commitment to the IOC and to the Olympic Movement", a statement claimed, including to "worldwide TOP (The Olympic Programme) partners, National Olympic Committees and athletes".

“We are pleased to be able to continue our long-term agreement with Getty as the official photographic agency through to 2020," said Timo Lumme, managing director of IOC Television and Marketing Services.

"As a leader in the photographic industry, Getty has demonstrated its ability to capture the magic of the Olympic Games and the inspirational achievements of the Olympic athletes for many years.

"Through Getty’s global distribution platforms it is able to meet not only the Olympic Movement’s needs, but also support media organisations around the world with fantastic Olympic imagery.”

Getty Images photos of medal events during the Sochi 2014 Games were available to subscribers almost instantly after much of the action, with it hoped they will be similarly speedy during Rio 2016.

Their presence in the Brazilian city will be particularly important due to how image-friendly many of the picturesque venues will be.

“Getty and the IOC have worked together for over 25 years, and we are honoured to be expanding our long-established relationship to fit the evolving needs of the Olympic Movement and its key stakeholders,” added Ken Mainardis, vice-president, sports imagery and services, Getty Images.

“Social media and the proliferation of channels through which people consume content have made a huge impact on the way we watch and experience the Olympic Games.

"Powerful imagery that tells a story has never been more important. It drives engagement, and singlehandedly inspires and evokes emotion.

"We are delighted with this opportunity to provide riveting content that will inspire and engage sports fans all over the globe.

“We anticipate 2016 to be the most visual Olympic Games yet, as we bring our photographic excellence to capture the beauty of Rio and the intensity and excitement of this world-class sporting event.

"Our photographers’ original perspective on sports, gained through years of specialist sports photography experience, will ensure Getty Images captures the best and most unique Olympic moments as they happen."