Brazilian bombshell Adriana Lima held back proud tears as she had the honour of lighting the Olympic torch in Praca Maua on Thursday night (04Aug16).

The 35-year-old Victoria's Secret Angel took part in the ceremonial event on the Olympic Boulevard in Rio de Janeiro before the torch was carried to the Christ the Redeemer statue.

''Grateful to experience this incredible honor and dream to carry the #Rio2016 Olympic torch in my home country Brazil," she wrote on Twitter.

The flame will be used to open the 2016 Rio Olympics at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro at midnight on Friday (05Aug16).

The launch of the summer games will feature a number of pop stars and celebrities, including award-winning singers Caetano Veloso and Gilberto Gil, but one national treasure has pulled out of the event - soccer legend Pele is too sick to attend.

The 75-year-old was widely rumoured to be the person lighting the Olympic cauldron, but he has issued a statement revealing he'll be a no-show.

"Only God is more important than my health," he says. "In my life, I've had fractures, surgeries, pain, hospital stays, victories and defeats. And I've always respected those who admire me. As a Brazilian, I ask God to bless all who participate in this event."

It's not clear who will take his place.