The Russian followed up a silver and bronze at Vancouver 2010 with a stellar display in the biathlon and cross-country at the Sochi Paralympics.

He won sitting cross-country gold in the 15 kilometres and 20km, as well as in the 4x2.5km open relay.

In the sitting biathlon, his home crowd cheered him on to victory in the 7.5km, 12.5km and 15km.

The Samaranch Award is presented annually to a physically or mentally challenged athlete who "displays courage, desire, and athletic ability in the face of adversity to achieve the goals set forth in the athlete's particular arena of competition".

In February 2006, Petushkov was involved in a car accident which resulted in both of his legs being amputated.

According to doctors, there was minimal chance of survival.

As soon as he was able to leave the hospital, Petushkov, now 36, began training.

Petushkov says sport taught him how to be strong and to always do his best.

Last year, Tatyana McFadden of the United States won the award after winning the 2013 Boston and London Marathon wheelchair races.

She was also won three gold medals at the London 2012 Paralympic Games.

Petushkov will be recognised at an awards ceremony in November.