The world's greatest ever pole vaulter Sergei Bubka of the Ukraine has been appointed chairman of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Athletes' Commission.

Bubka, 39, was proposed by IOC president Jacques Rogge and on Monday was officially named as successor to Finland's five-time Olympian in sailing Peter Tallberg.

"I am honoured to be voted Chairman of the Athletes' Commission," said former Olympic gold medallist and six-time world champion Bubka.

"This new position will allow me to further the work which Peter Tallberg has been so keenly contributing to over the past years - that of giving athletes a voice within the Olympic movement."

During his career Bubka beat the world record 35 times and remains the current record holder with 6.15m.