Juan Antonio Samaranch passes away at age 89

Juan Antonio Samaranch, Ex-International Olympic Committee President,  has passed away today at age 89 in a Barcelona hospital, his death being caused by a cardiac arrest.

He was admitted in the hospital a few days ago, suffering, according to hospital staff, of a serious heart condition.

Samaranch was the president of the IOC to have served the longest term in history. He was president of the Committee for 21 years. Jacques Rogge is the current president, having taken over from Samaranch.

Rogge expressed his regret in statement, adding that the former president was a man who inspired him, and whose knowledge of sport was exceptional.

After stepping down from his office as president of the International Olympic Committee, Samaranch has remained active in the field of sports administration and he was much appreciated.

Samaranch’s health problems were not a new thing. He had been admitted into the hospital twice more in the last 10 years.

May he rest in peace.