“When Juan Antonio Samaranch began his IOC presidency, the Olympic Movement was beset with immense financial problems and a string of devastating political boycotts. In the decade that followed, he proceeded to bring the Olympics to absolute preeminence among international sports events and build a solid economic base for the future.
He was a towering figure in the world of sport and a diplomat of consummate skill who navigated through turmoil to reunite the Olympic Movement.
But as large as he loomed on the world scene, Juan Antonio Samaranch was a great partner and an even better man. In the best of times he was a good friend and, more importantly, in the worst of times he was an even better one. He was a truly magnificent and thoughtful gentleman.”
- Dick Ebersol, Chairman, NBC Universal Sports & Olympics, on the passing of Juan Antonio Samaranch
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