The 24-year-old is sure to lead the Brazilian medal charge too, after a string of stunning achievements in the pool, including the phenomenal feat of winning 11 gold medals at the Parapan American Games in Guadalajara last year.

That added to the eight golds he had won in Rio de Janeiro four years earlier.

At the Beijing 2008 Paralympics Dias (pictured above and below) claimed four gold medals, as well as four silvers and a bronze, in what was his Games debut.

As well as becoming the holder of five world records, his stunning achievements led to him winning Laureus' prestigious Best Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability award.

"I received the invitation from the President of the Brazilian Paralympic Committee (CPB), Andrew Parsons, this weekend, and I was really happy," Dias said.

"It was a wonderful surprise.

"I am extremely honoured to be representing all the Brazilian people, my friends and fellow 181 Paralympians, and in particular, the entire community of people with disabilities in Brazil.

"All I can say is with great pleasure that I will carry this flag."


Parsons praised Dias' achievements and said that he epitomised the values of the Paralympic Movement.

"He pretty much sums up the four values of the International Paralympic Movement: courage, determination, inspiration and equality," Parsons explained.

"I'm sure that every athlete will feel honoured to have him as a representative."

Dias will be going for six gold medals in individual events this summer, and the São Paulo based swimmer said he "wants to help Brazil bring home many medals".

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