Swanson was struck by a truck along Highway 101 along the coast of Oregon, the neighbouring state to his native Washington, while attempting to complete his dribble-challenge. His ambitious task was in aid of sports charity One World Futbol Project, which provides blue footballs to developing countries.

He was only two weeks into his year-long challenge.

“We are deeply saddened to learn about Richard’s death,” said One World Futbol Project chief operating officer in a statement.

“He was a very inspiring man who in a very short time walked his way into many lives.”

Swanson had set out to complete his challenge to raise money for and awareness of the charity, which he only came into contact with recently.

He had been updating followers of his progress on the website breakawaybrazil.com which outlined his plans for the journey which would have taken him through 11 countries from the Pacific Northwest of the United States to the Brazilian capital city Sao Paulo.