Telkom have a history of supporting the country’s athletes having sponsored teams competing at the Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, as well as at the London 2012 Paralympics.

As a result of the partnership, the SASCOC claim the company will provide multi-million rand sponsorship which will help expand the nation’s team heading into the upcoming Games.

“As we see positive selections come on stream leading into Rio 2016 Olympic Games and Rio 2016 Paralympic Games, it’s positive to also see brands like Telkom commit to the Olympic team and Paralympic teams for Rio,” said Gideon Sam, SASCOC President.

“We expect to be taking up to 230 athletes and officials to Rio and to send the Team requires such positive support of brands like Telkom.

“With this sponsorship, Telkom has shown confidence in team South Africa and will be embarking on a journey that will culminate at the Rio Olympics later this year.”

As a result of the agreement, Telkom are to add four million Rand to the SASCOC’s medal incentive programme.

Athletes who secure a medal at either the Olympic or Paralympic Games will receive a share of the pool, according a formula devised by SASCOC and Telkom.

Their coaches will also be given a share of the prize pool.

“Telkom is honoured to be able to partner with our national Olympics team as they test themselves in the world’s most demanding sporting competition," said Sipho Maseko, chief executive of the Telkom Group.

“Their dedication to the Olympic motto of faster, higher, stronger, resonates with all of us as we strive to always be better than we were."

South Africa earned three gold medals at the London 2012 Olympic Games through swimmers Cameron van der Burgh and Chad le Clos, as well as their men's lightweight coxless four rowing team.

They also earned two silver and one bronze.

The country ended the Paralympic Games with eight gold, 12 silver and nine bronze medals.