The announcement means that the 36-year-old from Edinburgh will become the first cyclist in history to carry the Union Jack at an Opening Ceremony when he leads Team GB out at the Olympic Stadium on Friday (July 27).

"I'm absolutely delighted and honoured to have been voted as the flag bearer for Team GB," said Sir Chris, who will be competing in his fourth consecutive Olympics at London 2012.

"To lead out your team at a home Olympics is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity and one that that I can't wait to experience in just a few days' time."

Sir Chris was also the flag bearer at the Closing Ceremony at the Beijing 2008 where he won three gold medals.

That feat made him the first Briton to claim a hat trick of gold medals at the same Olympics since Henry Taylor, who claimed three victories in swimming at the London 1908 Games.

He will now be leading Britain's largest-ever Olympic team, comprised of 542 athletes, after he was nominated on a nine strong shortlist by Team GB Chef de Mission Andy Hunt, his four deputies and the 31 team leaders across the Olympic various sports.

Team GB athletes then voted for him to be the flag bearer.

"Team GB could not have placed the flag in better hands," said Hunt.

"It is a great honour for Sir Chris and the team will be proud to march behind him.

Chris Hoy carries the British flag during the Closing Ceremony at Beijing 2008

"He is a fantastic ambassador for his sport and his country."

It is a boost for Sir Chris after it was announced last week that British Cycling had chosen Jason Kenny ahead of him in the individual sprint race at the London 2012, despite the fact that Sir Chris is the reigning Olympic champion in the event.

Sir Chris will now defend only two of the three titles he won in Beijing four years ago – the keirin, in which he is also world champion – and the team sprint, joined by Kenny and Philip Hindes.

A gold medal in either event would still make Sir Chris the most successful Briton in Olympic history ahead of rower Sir Steve Redgrave.

Sir Chris already has four gold medals and a silver, while Sir Steve Redgrave has five golds and a bronze.

Sir Steve though, could play a prominent role with Sir Chris at the Opening Ceremony as he is a favourite to light the Olympic Cauldron at the Olympic Stadium.

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