RONALDINHO has been named as Brazil's newest tourism ambassador - despite being unable to leave the country.

The Barcelona legend, 39, is stranded in his home nation after having his passport taken away for failing to pay an environmental damage fine.

1 Ronaldinho has been named Brazil tourism ambassador despite being stranded in the country

Ronaldinho, along with his brother, was convicted of illegally building a fishing trap in a preservation area.

The Brazil icon still owes a staggering £2.06million - but he refused to pay up - and has had his 57-strong property portfolio seized.

Ronaldinho also owes £1.69m for various outstanding taxes, according to Brazilian newspaper Folha de S.Paulo.

The Brazilian had built the fishing trap at his Lake Guaiba property in 2015 - but did so without proper licencing.

VOLUNTEER

But now he will take on the voluntary role of tourism ambassador for his home nation.

Ronaldinho revealed: "Tourism is very important for generating jobs and regaining our image internationally."

A spokesperson for Brazil's tourist industry claimed: "Ronaldinho has almost 100 million followers in his networks and voluntarily helps us at no cost for patriotism.

"This attitude is invaluable.

"Just by issuing a visa to countries like the United States and Canada, we have already had over 200 per cent increase in demand for our country.

"We will increasingly invest, even in intelligence, to achieve our goals."

Ronaldinho retired from football in 2015 having been twice voted Fifa Player of the Year while at Barcelona and also won the World Cup with Brazil in 2002.