Pat HickeyÂ’'s lawyers are hopeful of securing his release from a prison in Rio, after THG Sports director Kevin Mallon was allowed to leave overnight.

Mr. Mallon, who iÂ’s due to appear in court later today, has agreed to stay in the city and abide by an 8pm curfew.

They were arrested as part of an investigation into alleged ticket touting at the Olympics but havenÂ’t been charged with anything.

Mr. Hickey, whoÂ’ is temporarily stepped aside as president of the Olympic Council of Ireland, could be released as early as today.

Anne Marie James, a solicitor for the Hickey family, has criticised the Irish government for its handling of the situation: