Speaking at the IOC Congress in Copenhagen, Seb said the new commission would help to combat growing international problem of youth inactivity, which is leading to obesity and other related health problems.

He said: “If the 20th Century was about bringing sport to the world then the 21st Century must be about reconnecting young people of the world to sport.

“At the congress in 1981 the Athletes Commission was born. It is now time to form a youth commission that can tackle and properly enshrine the challenges that young people face in our movement.”

The suggestion was immediately supported by former IOC President, Juan Antonio Samaranch and other sports leaders. Samaranch, now honorary lifetime IOC President, said: “I congratulate Seb Coe on his proposal. I think this is a good idea.”

Seb’s full speech can be read on his official blog.