USA Cycling says Dempsey, who is best known for staring in the American medical television drama Grey's Anatomy, will help to raise awareness of the sport.

Dempsey will encourage people to ride and support the United States’ team in his role for Tokyo 2020.

USA Cycling says the role is a natural extension of Dempsey’s support of the sport, which has included helping the Amgen Tour of California’s Breakaway from Cancer event.

“It is an absolute honour to share the love of this sport with actor and cycling enthusiast Patrick Dempsey,” Bouker Pool, chief commercial officer of USA Cycling, said.

“We are coming back to the Olympics stronger than ever, and we are hopeful to celebrate several triumphs and victories with him cheering on the team.”

Dempsey said he welcomed the opportunity to encourage more people to take up cycling.

“I have been a passionate cyclist for years now and this is a once-in-a-life opportunity, one I could not pass up,” Dempsey said.

“Cycling is not just a sport, it is a lifestyle and it is important to bring awareness to the world.

“I feel incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to play a small part in USA Cycling and look forward to encouraging the team as they prepare for the games in Tokyo.”

USA Cycling says the organisation boasts a long history of providing race opportunities to riders ranging from beginners to Olympians.

It hosts 18 National Championships annually for riders of all ages and disciplines.

The national governing body claims 2020 could see a record medal haul for its Olympic team.

USA Cycling’s athletes won five medals at Rio 2016.

This included gold medals for Kristin Armstrong in the women’s individual time trial and Connor Fields in the men’s BMX event.