More stories

  • in

    Slim Borgudd dead at 76: F1 driver who amazingly toured with Abba dies after battle with illness

    FORMER F1 driver and musician Slim Borgudd has died at the age of 76 after a long battle with illness. The racer managed to enjoy a successful career in both music and motorsport.
    Borgudd drove for ATS and Tyrrell during his F1 careerCredit: Getty
    When he wasn’t driving, Borgudd was drumming with music another big passion of hisCredit: Dominique Musik YouTube
    He even toured with ABBA and became a session drummer for the band as he attempted to launch his F1 career.
    Borgudd would eventually take part in 10 Grand Prix races through the 1981 and 1982 seasons.
    He first drove for ATS and then for the Tyrrell team.
    He would pick up his only championship point at the 1981 British Grand Prix when he finished sixth in the ATS car.
    READ MORE IN F1
    Before breaking into F1, the Swedish driver raced in lower categories through the 1960s before making it to Formula 3 in 1976.
    His music career would bring more glamour as he played drums for Swedish jazz-rock bands.
    ABBA’s rise to stardom would actually help the star fund his racing career.
    Borgudd was close friends with ABBA founder member Björn Ulvaeus and the band sponsored him to drive for the ATS team with the band’s name on his car.
    Most read in Motorsport
    After his F1 career ended, he went on to become a European champion in truck racing before retiring.
    Tributes have been pouring in for the star after his death was announced.
    One fan wrote on Twitter: “RIP Slim Borgudd. ABBA drummer, F1 driver. Wild but excellent combo.”
    Another F1 viewer said: “R.I.P Slim Borgudd. I had the pleasure to watch you race at my first British Grand Prix in 1981.” More

  • in

    John Motson quotes: What did the commentator say?

    THE death of legendary broadcaster John Motson saw tributes pour in from all across the country.Motson was a much loved football commentator on the BBC for over 50 years, and his commentary gave us some unforgettable moments.
    Motson was a football commentator for over 50 years
    What are the most famous John Motson quotes?
    Motson had an ability to add to what was happening on the pitch with his incredible commentary.
    He added humour to his analysis, such as when he said: “For those of you watching in black and white, Spurs are in the all-yellow strip.”
    His comment came as many households across the UK were watching the match on black and white TV sets rather than in colour.
    Here are some other iconic pieces of commentary by him.
    READ MORE ON JOHN MOTSON
    Ronnie Radford
    During Hereford’s shock 2-1 win against Newcastle in their 1972 FA Cup replay, Motson delivered one of his most iconic lines.
    Motson was only meant to cover the match for a five-minute segment but Ronnie Radford’s famous 30-yard strike meant the clash was promoted to the main game.
    He famously remarked on the game: “Oh what a goal! Radford the scorer. Ronnie Radford! And the crowd are on the pitch. What a tremendous shot by Ronnie Radford.”
    The game was a catalyst for Motson, as he believed it was a turning point in his career.
    Most read in Football
    Wimbledon win the FA Cup, 1988
    Wimbledon caused one of the biggest ever FA Cup final upsets by beating Kenny Dalglish’s Liverpool team full of stars.
    Lawrie Sanchez scored the winner and Dave Beasant became the first ever goalkeeper to save an FA Cup final penalty at Wembley.
    Their shock victory prompted Motson to say: “The Crazy Gang has beaten the Culture Club”.
    The tears of Gazza, 1990 World Cup Semi-Final
    In his first and only World Cup, Paul Gascogine helped England to their first semi-final for 24 years.
    In the game, an overexuberant Gazza mistimed a challenge on West Germany’s Thomas Berthold which saw him receive a yellow card which would have ruled him out of the final.
    The card saw an eruption of emotion from the midfielder that was perfectly described by the legendary commentator.
    Motty said: “Oh dear. Oh dear me.
    “He’s going to be out of the final, if England get there.
    “Here is a moment that almost brings tears to his eyes.”
    England didn’t make it to the final, losing 4-3 on penalties after extra time.
    Gazza’s goal against Scotland, Euro 96
    One of England’s most iconic goals from one of their greatest ever players, and Motson just helped add to the moment.
    Gascoigne’s incredible solo effort against Scotland, where he dinked the ball over Colin Hendry before firing past Rangers teammate Andy Goram, was perfectly described by Motson.
    He summed up the goal by saying “Here’s Gascoigne. Oh brilliant! Oh yes! Oh yes!”
    Germany 1-5 England, 2001
    Motty confessed that his favourite match he ever commentated on was England’s 5-1 drubbing of Germany in Munich in September 2001.
    The iconic world cup qualifier saw England destroy old rivals Germany on their own patch, and it seemed as though Motson was as excited as the Three Lions fans watching on.
    He screamed: “Ohhh, this is getting better and better and better. One, two, three for Michael Owen!”
    He went on to exclaim “I think this could be our best victory over Germany since the war”.
    Read More on The Sun
    What was John Motson’s cause of death?
    It has not yet been confirmed how John Motson died.
    Motson’s family released a statement on February 23, 2023, saying: “It is with great sadness that we announce that John Motson OBE died peacefully in his sleep today.”  More

  • in

    From the Crazy Gang to Gazza’s tears, the seven most iconic moments of John Motson’s career as BBC legend passes away

    FOOTBALL has lost its most iconic voice after John Motson passed away, aged 77.Fans across the country are mourning the legendary BBC commentator, who hung up his mic – and famous sheepskin coat – five years ago.
    BBC commentary legend John Motson has passed away, aged 77Credit: PA:Press Association
    During his distinguished 48-year career, Motty covered ten World Cups, ten European Championships, 29 FA Cup finals and more than 200 England games.
    But there are some moments that stand out more than others and will NEVER be forgotten.
    Here are SunSport’s favourite memories from the ‘Voice of Football’…
    You can’t fault his appetite for the game
    The famous sheepskin John Motson wore at Adams Park became synonymous with the BBC legend
    It was an image that became synonymous with Motty.
    Read More on John Motson
    And was always a running joke when the weather mimicked arctic conditions.
    In December 1980, Motty reported live from Adams Park before Wycombe Wanderers entertained Peterborough United.
    Battling the elements, he delivered his message with aplomb and the sheepskin became a regular fixture.
    His commentating was something quite poetic
    John Motson delivered the famous line, “The Crazy Gang have beaten the Culture Club” when Wimbledon beat LiverpoolCredit: Getty – Contributor
    Motty tapped into popular culture too.
    Most read in Football
    One of the biggest Cup Final shocks of all time came when Wimbledon beat Liverpool 1-0 thanks to a Lawrie Sanchez goal in 1988.
    Cue scenes of hysteria and disbelief at the final whistle and a distraught looking Kenny Dalglish as The Reds missed out on doing the double.
    “The Crazy Gang have beaten the Culture Club,” he delivered when the ref called time.
    And it is a line that has gone down in history.
    And he loved it when England did well
    The favourite game John Motson ever commentated on was England’s 5-1 drubbing of GermanyCredit: PA:Press Association
    When Michael Owen scored his third goal, John Motson was particularly vocalCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
    Motty confessed that his favourite match he ever commentated on was England’s 5-1 drubbing of Germany in Munich.
    You could really tell too, because he took so much delight in Michael Owen grabbing a hat-trick at the Olympiastadion during the 2002 World Cup qualifiers.
    He bellowed: “Ohhh, this is getting better and better and better. One, two, three for Michael Owen!”
    But arguably his most famous commentary line came when he first started out
    Ronnie Radford’s goal for Hereford United defined John Motson’s careerCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
    It was the goal that changed Motty’s life, he admitted.
    Effectively, he was on trial at the BBC and he confessed that he “hadn’t pulled up too many trees at that point.”
    “What a goal, what a goal,” Motson screamed as Ronnie Radford hit a screamer for Hereford United in their famous FA Cup shock against Newcastle.
    “Radford the scorer. Ronnie Radford.” Motty then became a permanent voice.
    Don’t mention Brian Clough though
    John Motson loved interviewing Brian Clough
    Brian Clough was prickly with John Motson in a awkward interview in 1979
    In 1979, the legendary Nottingham Forest manager gave Motty a particularly prickly interview.
    Cloughy wasn’t happy about the BBC over-analysing the beautiful game, so he let rip on the journalist.
    “I think what you do to referees is nothing short of criminal,” Cloughy told him in no uncertain terms.
    Despite that, Clough and Motty always had fun jousting over the years and Motty always said he was his favourite manager to interview.
    Gazza’s tears at Italia 90
    Paul Gascoigne’s tears were best described by John Motson during England’s semi final game against Germany at Italia 90Credit: Getty – Contributor
    TURIN – JULY 4: Paul Gascoigne of England bursts into tears after losing the FIFA World Cup Finals 1990 Semi-Final match between West Germany and England played at the Stadio Delle Alpi, in Turin, Italy on July 4, 1990. The match ended in a 1-1 draw after extra-time, with West Germany winning 4-3 in the […]Credit: Getty – Contributor
    When Paul Gascoigne launched into a mistimed tackle and earned a booking that would rule him out of a possible World Cup Final appearance, we were shot to pieces.
    Gazza soon got emotional on the pitch, and his Spurs colleague Gary Lineker gestured to manager Bryan Robson to keep an eye on him.
    “Oh dear. Oh dear me,” Motty reasoned with the nation. “He’s going to be out of the final, if England get there.”
    “Here is a moment that almost brings tears to his eyes.”
    Finally, he wasn’t afraid to call it how it was
    John Motson was scathing of Zinedine Zidane in the 2006 World Cup FinalCredit: AFP
    John Motson will be sorely missedCredit: Getty – Contributor
    When Zinedine Zidane got sent off against Italy at the 2006 World Cup the world was stunned by what they’d seen.
    The world’s greatest player threw a headbutt towards Italian defender Marco Materazzi who collapsed to the ground.
    “And the referee has gone across now with his hand in his pocket,” Motty told us as we awaited the official’s decision.
    Read More on The Sun
    “He’s been told about it. He’s off, it’s red, it’s Zidane! You can’t excuse that, Zidane’s career ends in disgrace!”
    Motty, you’ll be missed. More

  • in

    Tributes pour in for John Motson as Gary Lineker and Jamie Carragher pay respects after ‘voice of football’ passes away

    THE football world is in mourning after the death of legendary BBC commentator John Motson aged 77.Affectionately known as “Motty”, Motson was the voice of football on the Beeb for many generations.
    John Motson has passed away aged 77Credit: PA:Press Association
    As news of his sad passing circulated this morning, fans of all ages flocked to social media to pay tribute to the great man – whose charisma and feverish excitement helped many fall in love with the beautiful game.
    Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher led the tributes, writing: “RIP John Motson 💔
    “An absolute Legend of the game. So many of us grew up listening to this man describe the action & goals on MOTD & cup finals. Sad loss.”
    Match of the Day host Gary Lineker tweeted: “Deeply saddened to hear that John Motson has died. A quite brilliant commentator and the voice of football in this country for generations. He’ll be very much missed. RIP Motty.”
    READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS
    Commentator Clive Tyldesley movingly wrote: “As a teenager I just wanted to be John Motson. Nobody else. Terribly sad.”
    Gary Neville posted: “RIP John Motson.”
    Motty’s commentator pal Martin Tyler said on Sky Sports News: “He was somebody I admired in terms of the profession enormously. His attention to detail was second to none. He was a real example to me.
    “He advised me to ‘talk little, but say a lot’. That says a lot about John. A wonderful career, a great guy away from the microphone and a great sense of humour. He helped me a lot.
    Most read in Football
    Motson was the voice of football for many generationsCredit: Getty
    Motty received an award from Roy Hodgson for services to commentary in 2018Credit: Getty Images – Getty
    “A friend but a rival I suppose as well, but full admiration of him.”
    John Terry added: “RIP John Motson. The voice of football.”
    Comedian David Baddiel tweeted: “John Motson. Oy. Feels impossible: a voice that, at one time, was football. RIP.”
    And Former Arsenal and Everton striker Kevin Campbell also added: “Rest in Peace John “Motty” Motson an absolute legend and gentleman.”
    BBC pundit and ex-England striker Chris Sutton tweeted: “Really sad news to hear of the passing of John Motson. He was a legendary figure in the commentary box and will be sorely missed. Thoughts and prayers go out to his family.”
    And Alastair Campbell wrote: “So sad to hear Motty has died. The best. One of life’s enthusiasts, a man who loved football with every cell in his body and loved sharing his knowledge and passion with others. RIP.”
    Alan Sugar added: “Sorry to hear that John Motson has died. One of the greatest football commentators ever. RIP Motty”
    While fans were also left devastated.
    One wrote: “RIP to legendary commentator John Motson, an iconic voice of football you will be sorely missed.”
    And a second added: “RIP John Motson. Iconic.”
    A third accurately described him as a “pioneer for football commentary”.
    Read More on The Sun
    While a fourth tweeted: “Rest in Peace John Motson, the voice of football for my generation.”
    Another poignantly wrote: “Such sad news about John Motson. The voice of football. Even the word iconic doesn’t do him justice.”
    Motson dons his iconic sheepskin coatCredit: PA:Press Association More

  • in

    John Motson dead: BBC commentator legend dies aged 77 as stars pay tribute to ‘voice of football’

    LEGENDARY football commentator John Motson has died aged 77 leaving the world of sport in mourning.The BBC pundit celebrated 50 years in the job in 2018 before hanging up his mic in May that year.
    John Motson has passed awayCredit: Rex
    Motson, who was affectionately known as Motty, later came out of retirement to join talkSPORT.
    The commentator was famed for his signature sheepskin coat as he became the voice of football for countless generations.
    During his career, he covered ten World Cups, ten European Championships, 29 FA Cup finals and more than 200 England games.
    A statement from his family said: “It is with great sadness we announce that John Motson OBE died peacefully in his sleep today (Thursday).”
    Read more on John Motson
    Tributes have flooded in for the legend from the world of football.
    Gary Lineker wrote: “Deeply saddened to hear that John Motson has died.
    “A quite brilliant commentator and the voice of football in this country for generations. He’ll be very much missed. RIP Motty.”
    Sky Sports commentator Martin Tyler said: “John was the standard-setter for us all.
    Most read in Football
    “We basically all looked up to him – his diligence, his dedication, his knowledge. He was a very serious broadcaster but he was a real fun guy to be around.”
    Fellow commentator Clive Tyldesley wrote on Twitter: “As a teenager I just wanted to be John Motson. Nobody else.”
    Jamie Carragher said: “RIP John Motson. An absolute Legend of the game. So many of us grew up listening to this man describe the action & goals on MOTD & cup finals. Sad loss.”
    While former Arsenal and Everton striker Kevin Campbell wrote: “Rest in Peace John “Motty” Motson an absolute legend and gentleman.”
    In 2014, Motson was diagnosed with bowel cancer and forced to miss the World Cup in Brazil.
    Speaking at the time, he said: “I consider myself very lucky I was diagnosed so early that the cancer was dealt with and the positiveness came about because I wanted to get back into my normal life.
    “That drive and determination was probably the most positive thing I could’ve had.”
    Motson was born in Salford and began his journalistic career in Barnet – the team he supports on the Barnet Press.
    He worked as a reporter between 1963 and 1967 before being hired for BBC Radio 2.
    His first radio commentary was an Everton v Derby clash in December 1969.
    Three years later, Motson became a household name thanks to his work on Match of the Day.
    His breakthrough came during Hereford’s shock 2-1 win against Newcastle in the 1972 FA Cup replay.
    Motson was only meant to cover the match for a five-minute segment but Ronnie Radford’s famous 30-yard strike meant the clash was promoted to the main game.
    He famously remarked on the game: “Oh what a goal! Radford the scorer. Ronnie Radford! And the crowd are on the pitch. What a tremendous shot by Ronnie Radford.”
    It helped propel his career even further – with Motson going on to voice major FA Cup, European Championships and World Cup finals.
    He commentated on almost 2,500 televised games in total including a record-breaking sixth World Cup final in Berlin in 2006 and his 29th FA Cup final in 2008.
    Motson was famed for his often poetic commentary and encyclopaedic football knowledge during his illustrious career.
    His quip at Wimbledon scuppering Liverpool’s chances of the double in 1988 became notorious.
    The legend said: “The Crazy Gang have beaten the Culture Club.”
    Motson bowed out after 50 years on the final day of the 2017/18 season and was invited on to the pitch.
    Then-Crystal Palace manager Roy presented him with a framed copy of the programme from his first and last matches at Selhurst Park and a crystal microphone.
    He won a Bafta that year for his work and received an OBE in 2001 for services to sports broadcasting.
    Motson lived in Hertfordshire with his wife Anne, who he married in 1977.
    BBC director-general Tim Davie described Motson as “the voice of a footballing generation”, steering fans “through the twists and turns of FA Cup runs, the highs and lows of World Cups and, of course, Saturday nights on Match of the Day”.
    Read More on The Sun
    He added: “Like all the greats behind the mic, John had the right words, at the right time, for all the big moments.
    “He will rightly be remembered as a legendary figure in British sports broadcasting, respected by those in the game, loved by fans and an inspiration to those who followed him in the commentary box.”
    A final photo of Motson shows him attending a match at Sutton United on February 4Credit: Facebook
    Motson began his career in the 1960sCredit: Getty
    He became known as the voice of footballCredit: Getty
    Motson won a Bafta for his commentating in 2018Credit: Getty – Contributor
    He retired that year after commentating on the final game of the seasonCredit: Stuart Roy Clarke
    Motson was given a standing ovation at his last game in 2018Credit: Rex
    The pundit covered almost 2,500 televised gamesCredit: PA:Press Association
    Motson was given an OBE for services to sports broadcasting in 2001Credit: PA:Press Association
    During his career, he covered ten World Cups, ten European Championships, 29 FA Cup finals and more than 200 England gamesCredit: PA:Press Association More

  • in

    Jian Kayo dead at 21: Tragedy as Brazilian talent’s body found at home as heartbroken club pay tribute

    AN up and coming Brazilian star has been found dead at his home aged just 21. Jian Kayo, who played for Ituano FC, was confirmed to have been found dead in a heart-breaking club statement.
    Heartbreak in Brazil after Jian Kayo found dead in his homeCredit: Instagram
    The statement read: “With great sadness and dismay, Ituano FC communicates the death of the athlete Jian Kayo Gomes Soares.
    “The body was found lifeless, at his residence, on the night of Saturday the 18th. Goalkeeper Jian Kayo, born in Parana, was 21 years old.
    “He arrived for the Under-20 of Ituano in 2021 and was a starter in the Paulista Championship of that year, a starter in the 2022 Sao Paulo Cup and also in Paulistao of the same year.
    “Promising and of quality, he was promoted to the professional squad for the 2023 season.
    READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
    “We deeply regret this great loss, directing our prayers to him, his family and his friends. Ituano FC is providing all the necessary support and attention to the family, at this time of deep pain.
    “As soon as possible, after approval by the authorities and the family, we will disclose additional information.”
    Kayo was found unresponsive in his home on Saturday evening, with his club playing an emotional game on Sunday as they won 2-0 against Santo Andre.
    The goalkeeper was formerly a part of Sao Paolo’s youth system.
    Most read in Football
    They also released a statement, which read: “With great sorrow and dismay, Sao Paulo Football Club regrets the death of goalkeeper Jian Kayo, who passed through the #MadeInCotia base and was at Ituano.
    “Our condolences and solidarity to the family, friends and @ituanofc, wishing you all find strength in this time of pain.”
    Ituano, who play in Brazil’s Serie B, is the former club of Arsenal star Gabriel Martinelli. More

  • in

    Amancio Amaro dead at 83: Real Madrid legend and honorary president who won European Cup and nine titles dies

    REAL MADRID legend Amancio Amaro has died aged 83, the Spanish giants have confirmed.Amancio played for Real Madrid between 1962 and 1976, winning nine LaLiga titles and a European Cup.
    Amancio Amaro was honorary club president at Real MadridCredit: Getty
    Amancio played for the Spanish giants between 1962 and 1976Credit: Getty
    He also represented Deportivo La Coruna between 1958 and 1962, in addition to earning 42 Spain caps.
    Nick named El Brujo, meaning The Magician, Amancio played for Madrid during an amazing period of success.
    In a club statement, the LaLiga champions wrote: “Real Madrid CF, its president and its Board of Directors deeply regret the death of Amancio Amaro, honorary president of Real Madrid and one of the great legends of our club and of world football.
    “Real Madrid would like to express its condolences and affection to his wife Consuelo, his children Oscar, Belen, Amancio, Patricia, Marcos and Claudia, his brother Juan Carlos, his grandchildren and all his relatives, colleagues and loved ones.”
    READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
    Amancio equalised in the 1966 European Cup final, as Madrid came from behind to beat Partizan Belgrade in Brussels.
    In total, the forward player bagged 155 times in 471 appearances for Real Madrid.
    Amancio helped Spain win the European Championship of 1964, scoring in the semi-final win over Hungary.
    After retiring from playing, Amancio stayed involved at Santiago Bernabeu.
    Most read in Football
    He began coaching Madrid’s youth teams, before taking a job as Real Madrid Castilla boss.
    Amancio guided Castilla to the 1984 Segunda title, before taking on the job as first team boss later that year.
    Following a year in charge, he went on to work for Real Madrid as a consultant, board member and honorary president – a position to which he was elected last year.
    Madrid’s statement added: “Amancio Amaro has passed away at the age of 83. He will be remembered by all Madridistas and by all football fans as one of the great legends of this sport.
    “Real Madrid extends its condolences to all Real Madrid fans. Rest in peace.”
    Amancio remained involved at Santiago BernabeuCredit: Getty More

  • in

    Colin Dobson dead aged 82: Tributes pour in as ex-Huddersfield and Sheffield Wednesday legend passes away

    FORMER footballer Colin Dobson has died aged 82.The inside-forward had spells with Sheffield Wednesday, Huddersfield and Brighton, before joining Bristol Rovers as a player-coach.
    Colin Dobson has died aged 82
    Dobson poses in his Sheffield Wednesday kitCredit: Rex
    He also played twice for England U23’s.
    After hanging up his boots Dobson ventured into coaching and managed in Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and Oman.
    Known for his pace and skill, Dobson was a popular figure at all of his clubs during the 1960s and 70s.
    Upon learning of his passing, Bristol Rovers wrote: “We were saddened to learn of the passing of former Rovers player and coach Colin Dobson.”
    READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
    Huddersfield posted on their Twitter account: “All at #htafc are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Colin Dobson, who played for the Club between 1966-1972.
    “Our thoughts our with his family, friends and loved ones at this time.
    “Once a Terrier, always a Terrier.”
    Fans also took to social media to pay their respects.
    Most read in EFL
    Dobson excited fans during the 1960s and 70sCredit: Rex
    One wrote: “One of my favourite players. RIP Colin.”
    A second reminisced: “RIP Colin Dobson. Saw him play for Huddersfield at Fratton Park mid 60s.
    “Skilful and hard as nails. Remember some old lady giving him the verbals. Very amusing to us kids at the time.”
    A third tweeted: “RIP Colin Dobson remember Colin so well as a boy going to Bristol Rovers brilliant winger.”
    And another added: “RIP the great Colin Dobson.”
    Turning professional at Sheffield Wednesday in 1957, the Eston-born attacker made 177 league appearances for the Owls, scoring 49 times.
    He moved to Huddersfield for £25,000 in 1966, going on to play 155 times for the Terriers, scoring 50 goals.
    Dobson helped Town win the Second Division title in 1970, having been their top scorer in the prior two seasons.
    He played four games on loan at Brighton in 1972, although his time with the Seagulls was cruelly curtailed by a broken leg.
    His former Wednesday team-mate Don Megson made Dobson his first signing as Bristol Rovers manager later that year.
    He would return from his broken leg injury to debut that November, going on to excel for the club.
    Dobson helped Rovers to promotion in the 1973-74 season – also featuring in an 8-2 victory over former club Brighton along the way.
    He retired in 1976 before launching a managerial career in the 1980s.
    Dobson took charge of Bahraini side West Riffa in 1984 and 1985, before being appointed Al Rayyan boss in Qatar.
    He managed them between 1985 and 1987, later going on to lead Kuwaiti side Al Arabi in 1994-95.
    The coach then took charge of Oman’s Under-17s in 1997.
    Read More on The Sun
    In addition to his coaching work, Dobson also worked extensively as a scout.
    During his time as chief scout at Stoke City, he was credited with unearthing future England keeper Ben Foster, who had been playing for non-league Racing Club Warwick. More