The Irishman arrested three weeks ago, allegedly in possession of over 800 tickets for the Olympic Games, has had his case assigned to a court.

Documents on a Brazilian court website say Kevin Mallon will face charges at a special court established in the run-up to the World Cup and Olympic Games.

The news comes as the OCI president Pat Hickey continues to await the assignment of his own case to a court.

Journalist Matt Sandy’s in Rio and says Mr Hickey will not be able to apply for bail until that takes place, and will continue to remain in the high-security Bangu prison in the meantime: “Patrick Hickey is still in Jail.

“Is is a step forward, but it is just a step.”