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Sports pays tribute to Queen Elizabeth II
22/09/09
13:37
sokapro-Sports pays tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

Following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, the UK's longest-reigning monarch, at age 96, sport has paid tribute.

Sports has paid tribute following the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-serving monarch in Great Britain's history. After her death was announced on Thursday, messages started pouring in from sports world governing bodies and personalities. A minute's silence was held at Manchester United, Arsenal, West Ham, and Hearts' European matches. And in horse racing, the sport closely linked to Her Majesty, she was described as its "greatest supporter" The Premier League expressed its "great sadness" over the Queen's passing by having each of its clubs submit personal tributes to her in addition to the main tribute posted on the main league's official social media handles. "Our thoughts and condolences are with the Royal Family and everyone around the world mourning the loss of Her Majesty," the league said. English Football League chair Rick Parry added: "On behalf of the league and its clubs, we join the rest of the nation and people across the world in mourning the passing of our Queen, Elizabeth II." 

England men's and women's captains Harry Kane and Leah Williamson described the Queen as an "amazing inspiration" and “a light so bright, she gave us hope when there seemed to be none” Former England captain David Beckham said the Queen "served her country with dignity and grace". Brazil legend Pele said: "I have been a great admirer of Queen Elizabeth II since the first time I saw her in person, in 1968, when she came to Brazil to witness our love for football and experienced the magic of a packed Maracana. Her deeds have marked generations." FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said: "The Queen was undoubtedly one of the most respected heads of state ever to have lived, and I send my condolences, and those of the entire FIA community, to the Royal Family and all of the citizens of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth. "Motorsport, and especially Formula 1, has its heart in the United Kingdom, and the Royal Family has, over the years, given great support and patronage to the sport. "For this we thank them, and those events taking place around the world this weekend will undoubtedly be undertaken in honour of Her Majesty." 

International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach said the world had lost "a great supporter of sport and the Olympic movement".  "Her Majesty was the only head of state to declare open two editions of the Olympic Games and was already present at the Olympic Games London 1948," he said. "As patron of the British Olympic Association, she provided invaluable advice and help to the Olympic community." Four-time Olympic gold medallist Sir Mo Farah led the tributes from athletics, writing: "The Queen was loved all over the world and meant so much to so many. "Meeting her was one of the greatest honours of my life. We will remember her for her warmth and dedication to the British people throughout her reign." British heavyweight boxers Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua issued brief statements on their respective social media accounts. Fury posted a picture with the words "Thoughts & prayers with my Queen tonight, may God be with you", while Joshua wrote simply: "Rest in peace".