We've finally made it: today will see the official opening of the Games of the XXXI Olympiad in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. 206 nations and a team of refugees will march into the Maracanã Stadium in a little while. British tennis player Andy Murray will carry the flag for Team GB.

Directed by Fernando Meirelles (City of God), Brazilian supermodel Gisele Bundchen and Dame Judi Dench will perform (together?). Pele is no longer absent due to sponsor commitments, but his attendance is now in doubt as a result of concerns about his health. All smoke and mirrors, my money is firmly on him to light the Olympic flame.

It all kicks off at midnight, on the BBC.

Sportwise there isn't much happening today. Archery qualification rounds at the Sambodrome have started for the men including Patrick Huston (currently in 43rd place). Naomi Folkard will be in action later on.