The agreement ensures that Olympic athletes around the world receive greater support and assistance as they transition into life after sport, it is claimed.

"The extension of our agreement underlines our commitment to supporting athletes at every stage of their lives," said IOC Athletes’ Commission chair Emma Terho.

"Transitioning into a new career can be a challenging moment, and we are proud that Athlete365 Career+ has already supported thousands of athletes to successfully navigate this challenge.

"We are grateful that The Adecco Group will continue to make its resources available to athletes as they transition from competing on the field of play to competing in the labour market."

The IOC and The Adecco Group began working together in 2005 on what was originally the IOC Athlete Career Programme.

Since then, the scheme has provided career development resources to more than 50,000 athletes.

"At The Adecco Group, we believe in the power of sport and athlete-talent potential," said Alain Dehaze, chief executive of The Adecco Group.

"For over 16 years, we have worked with the IOC to support athlete careers beyond sport.

"This support agreement meets with our purpose - to make the future work for everyone.

"In the next four years, we will be powering Athlete365 Career+ through talent solutions, expertise, and online resources.

"Our goal is to increase our reach and impact on the athlete community, helping athletes design their next career; positioning them as an unbeatable talent in the broader labour market."

The new agreement focuses on supporting the IOC in the development, management, implementation and coordination of the Athlete365 Career+ scheme.

It also invests into furthering it through with three core features.

The first focuses on athlete career transitions and solutions which help them to understand and build upon their unique skillsets and hidden attributes.

The second centres around the provision of expertise and promotion.

This support will be in the form of research and thought leadership to position athlete talent into the labour market.

The third pillar is attempting to strengthen an existing athlete employer initiative by building a global network of athlete employers.

"Transitioning to a new career after sport brings new challenges, but it does not have to promote fear if you are prepared," said Ryu Seung-min, IOC Athletes' Commission vice-chairman and chair of the Athlete365Career+ Steering Committee.

"Through Athlete365Career+, we strive to be a leader in the career transition for athletes in the fact that we are there for support and solidarity while empowering athletes to carry the beneficial skills learned on the field, throughout their lifelong journey."