The cooperation deal, signed by the two parties for a further eight years, will ensure that Olympic athletes around the world will  benefit further from myriad forms of assistance designed to ease their transition into general life once their competitive careers end.

It was inked by IOC President Jacques Rogge and Adecco Group chief executive Patrick De Maeseneire in Lausanne.

The IOC, working closely with Adecco, a world-leading provider of human resources solutions, established the ACP in 2005, and since then the programme has provided career development and job placement services to more than 10,000 athletes from some 100 countries.

Through the initiative, athletes receive advice and guidance in with three key areas: education, life skills and employment.

Indeed, the ACP will boast a strong presence within the Athletes' Village at London 2012 this summer – and more information on the programme (pictured) can be obtained by clicking here. 

"The extension [to the deal] is another example of how committed the Olympic Movement is to athletes," said Rogge.

"Athletes are the heart of the Olympic Games and the IOC strives to make sure they are well looked after, both during their athletics careers and afterwards."

He added: "We are very happy our friends at Adecco will continue to support the IOC Athlete Career Programme and help athletes make the transition from competing on the field of play to competing in the labour market."

De Maeseneire commented: "We are proud to provide HR services to the Olympic Movement and to be a partner to elite athletes."

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