Olympic leaders create special team for refugee athletes

The International Olympic Committee has officially created a special team that will allow refugee athletes to compete at the 2016 Summer Games.

The “ROA” team will have its own uniforms, marching in the opening ceremonies behind the Olympic flag. The IOC will pay for staff and coaches to work with the athletes during the 17-day competition in Rio de Janeiro.

“This team will enjoy all the privileges like the other teams and athletes,” IOC President Thomas Bach said during a news conference. “We want to send a message of hope for all refugees of the world.”

The IOC originally announced its intention to form the team earlier this year. The committee’s executive board approved the idea Wednesday.

Displaced people from troubled lands such as Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan have flooded into Europe in recent months.

Olympic officials said they have identified more than 40 athletes who have refugee status and might satisfy the performance standards for inclusion in the Games. Bach estimated the final number of team members could be 10 or less.

“We will cover all the travel and other participation expenses,” he said. “And we will continue to support these athletes after the closing ceremony of the Olympic Games.”

Additional refugees are expected to compete for countries where they now make their homes, officials said.