One week after the official launch, fans from all over the planet have downloaded the official Rio 2016 app and helped create a global online community. In the first in a series of challenges, users have been invited to share photos that demonstrate the spirit of the first Olympic and Paralympic Games to be staged in South America, with tickets for the opening and closing ceremonies and a chance to help decorate the Olympic and Paralympic Village up for grabs. There’s still time to take part – the deadline is 17 February.

“The My Rio 2016 app aims to involve all those who love sport and who would like to take a more active role in the Olympic and Paralympic Games”

Adriana Garcia, Rio 2016 communications director

With the ‘Rio 2016 Spirit’ campaign, the organising committee is offering youngsters up to 18 years of age the chance to have their photographs used to decorate the bedrooms of the Olympic and Paralympic Village, where about 15,000  athletes will stay during the Games. Over-18s can also take part in the competition and try to win three pairs of tickets for the Rio 2016 opening and closing ceremonies.

The curator of the challenge is Vik Muniz – a renowned Brazilian artist and photographer who is also creative director of the Paralympic ceremonies. Three further challenges will be launched up to the end of April, with photographs, videos, songs and fan chants to be used to win exclusive prizes.

More images from the 'Rio 2016 Spirit' contest (Hermes Suzuki/Douglas Corrêa/Marina Laterza/Rafael Duarte/Fede Sibilia/Jadson Silva)

Around 65 per cent of those who have downloaded the new app are Brazilian, with Americans, Britons, Argentines and Italians completing the top five. The app has been downloaded on all continents, including in countries such as Mongolia, Cyprus, Mauritius and Zambia.

“For us, the Games start in May, with the torch relay, and finish in September. The early launch of the app and engagement campaigns allow us to increase our digital offering even before the Games begin,” said Garcia.

Information about Olympic and Paralympic sports, news about the organisation of the Games and athletes, and job opportunities can all be found on the app, which also offers full integration with social networks and quizzes to compete with friends, collect medals and accumulate points. At the end of each week, a ranking of the most active fans on the platform is published, with the top-ranked users winning official Rio 2016 products.

Download the app free of charge for Android and iOS, or access the desktop version.