Felix and Franklin join swimmer Ryan Murphy, wrestler Jordan Burroughs and Paralympic athletes - cyclist Will Groulx, swimmer Jessica Long and sprinter-long jumper athlete Scout Bassett - on the list of Team Bridgestone athlete ambassadors for next year's Olympics and Paralympics.

The seven competitors, who have won a combined 48 Olympic and Paralympic medals, will receive financial support and "access to cutting-edge Bridgestone products and technologies" before the Games in the Japanese capital.

They become part of a global team that includes more than 50 ambassadors in 14 different countries.

Bridgestone is a worldwide Olympic and Paralympic partner.

The Japanese tyre company is also sponsor of the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee.

"Bridgestone is committed to improving the way people move, live, work, and play, and these efforts are reflected in our support of the Olympic and Paralympic movements and their world-class athletes," Bridgestone Americas President and chief executive Gordon Knapp said.

"While our new Team Bridgestone ambassadors certainly have an impressive list of athletic accomplishments, we are most excited to celebrate the personal journeys behind their achievements. 

"These remarkable individuals have unique experiences to share that can help motivate people of all backgrounds and abilities to overcome obstacles and chase their dreams."

Felix has won six Olympic gold medals during her glittering career on the track, including 200 metres gold at London 2012, while Franklin, a five-time Olympic swimming champion, announced her retirement from the sport in December.

Burroughs claimed the 74 kilograms gold medal at the London 2012 Olympics and is a four-time world champion and Murphy earned the 100m backstroke, 200m backstroke and 4x100 medley titles at Rio 2016.

Long is a 13-time Paralympic champion, while Groulx is a wheelchair rugby player turned cyclist who has clinched two Paralympic gold medals.