"My success in the pool has afforded me many great opportunities and the ability to lend support to Chicago 2016 is a privilege that ranks among the top of the list," said Phelps, in a news release from Chicago 2016. "It is truly an honor to be able to represent your country and to have the opportunity to do so in your own country would be an experience unlike any other."
The city's Olympic committee said Phelps has been a member since the group began in 2006.
"Offering Chicago's young people a role model like Michael Phelps is one of the best ways to help foster more interest and excitement in the variety of Olympic sports such as swimming," said Mayor Richard M. Daley, also in a news release. "That's why I'm so pleased that Michael is coming to Chicago to share his passion for his sport as well as his remarkable experience in Beijing. His visit will serve as a great inspiration to our residents and to our efforts to host the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games."
