PtG Article 21.04.2010

Former IOC chief Samaranch dies

Former International Olympic Committee president Juan Antonio Samaranch has died in hospital after being taken ill at the weekend.

By: Play the Game

Current IOC president Jacques Rogge paid tribute to his predecessor, saying: "I cannot find the words to express the distress of the Olympic Family"

"I am personally deeply saddened by the death of the man who built up the Olympic Games of the modern era, a man who inspired me, and whose knowledge of sport was truly exceptional".

Samaranch, who was admitted to hospital on Sunday with acute heart problems, died from cardio-respiratory failure.

SOURCE: BBC Sport