He received 35 votes out 36 from the sporting governing bodies in the country eligible to cast their ballot.

Álvarez will now serve a fourth four-year term after being elected for the first time in 2006.

His tenure through to 2022 was welcomed by PanamSports President Neven Ilic.

"Eduardo is a great sports leader from Venezuela," said the Chilean.

"He is a tremendous person, who has helped the sport of his country a lot. 

"I am very happy that he has been re-elected as President of the COV. 

"It is a great contribution not only for Venezuela but for all the continental sport."

The COV held its Ordinary Assembly alongside the election where its 2017 report and accounts were unanimously approved. 

Venezuela won three medals at the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, which took place on their home continent.

Yulimar Rojas, who won the world title last year in London, claimed silver in the women's triple jump, with Venezuelans also collecting two bronze medals.

These came courtesy of boxer Yoel Finol and cyclist Stefany Hernández, third in the men's flyweight and women's BMX competitions respectively.  

The country has won two gold medals in its Olympic history since making its debut at London 1948.

Boxer Francisco Rodríguez won the men's light flyweight division at Mexico 1968 and fencer Rubén Limardo claimed victory in the men's épée at London 2012.