Former IOC president Samaranch dies
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Juan Antonio Samaranch, the man who was president of the International Olympic Committee for 21 years until 2001, has died aged 89.
Samaranch is credited as the man who brought professional sport into the Olympics.
IOC president Jacques Rogge, who succeeded Samaranch, said: "I cannot find the words to express the distress of the Olympic Family."
Samaranch died in hospital in his home town of Barcelona two days after being admitted with coronary problems.
Rogge added: "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.
"Thanks to his extraordinary vision and talent, Samaranch was the architect of a strong and unified Olympic Movement.
"I can only pay tribute to his tremendous achievements and legacy, and praise his genuine devotion to the Olympic Movement and its values. We have lost a great man, a mentor and a friend who dedicated his long and fulfilled life to Olympism."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments