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    Keith Farmer dead at 35: Tributes paid to four-time British motorcycle champion after shock sudden passing

    FOUR-TIME British motorcycle champion Keith Farmer has passed away aged 35.Farmer, known as the Clogher Bullet, passed away suddenly, his brother David announced on Thursday.
    Keith Farmer has passed away suddenly aged 35Credit: Pacemaker
    The ex-TAS Racing rider was a four-time British championCredit: Pacemaker
    David wrote: “I’m lost for words our little brother left us at 1.45 this morning with us all by his side.
    “Life will never be the same again, he made us all so proud and he will be very sorely missed. Love you Meekie #33.”
    Farmer, who was based in Cumbria, was described as “pure raw talent” whose motorsport career was hampered by injury and bad luck.
    He had retired from racing in September 2021, after battling injury for the final few years of his career, and was looking forward to spending time with his family.
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    At the time of his retirement, Keith told the News Letter: “I just feel the time is right now because the enjoyment’s not there any more and my body needs the chance to heal from the injuries I’ve had over these past couple of years.
    “I’ve another baby due in five weeks’ time and my other youngest daughter is turning five in December, plus I’ve my eldest daughter back in Northern Ireland.
    “I want to walk away now when I can rather than keeping going for the sake of it, and I want to spend more time with my family.”
    Four-time British champ Farmer competed for BSB, Paul Bird Motorsport, Buildbase Suzuki and TAS Racing, with the latter describing his passing as “absolute devastation”.
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    Team principal Philip Neill offered his sympathies to Farmer’s family and friends, saying: “We enjoyed many happy memories together both within racing and on a personal level as Keith had remained a close friend of the team.
    “His talent was undeniable and although his successes were many, including a memorable Superstock championship win with Tyco BMW in 2018, I will always feel like we never actually witnessed Keith’s full potential on a superbike – as he was so often hampered by injury or bad luck.”
    The British Superbike Championship say Farmer will be remembered fondly by his rivals.
    The organisation said: “Keith will be terribly missed by all that had the pleasure of meeting him throughout his career.
    “He was a brilliant and successful rider on track, who will be fondly remembered by his rivals, colleagues and fans following today’s tragic news.”
    Glenn Irwin, British Superbike rider, described him as his “fierce rival”.
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    Sharing a picture on Twitter of the pair on a podium, he added: “The day 3 mad Irish men locked out the podium. 2011 you were my fierce rival winning the stock 600 title.
    “I remember when PBM snapped you up, sure you would go all the way to the top with birdys then GP team. That’s how good you were, pure raw talent.” More

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    Ronnie Radford dead at 79: Tributes paid to Hereford legend who scored one of most famous goals in FA Cup history

    NON-LEAGUE Hereford United and FA Cup legend Ronnie Radford has died aged 79, it has been confirmed.Radford scored one of the most iconic FA Cup goals of all time in Hereford’s shock 2-1 giant-killing of Newcastle United in 1972.
    Raford (middle) celebrating after the Newcastle FA Cup winCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
    Radford took aim from distance to score an equaliser on the mud-curled pitchCredit: BBC
    Radford wheeling away in celebrationCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd
    The ex-midfielder’s 30-yard strike was a hopeful swing of a boot at a mud-curdled Edgar Street.
    Radford’s wonderstrike of an equaliser, which cancelled out England striker Malcolm Macdonald’s opener, sparked a pitch invasion.
    Hereford team-mate Ricky George went on to score the winner, dumping Newcastle out of the FA Cup.
    On his goal, Radford wrote in the Sun’s Goals pull out on January 26, 2009: “As soon as I hit the ball from 30 yards out I knew it was going in.
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    “I was running away with my hands above my head long before the ball had even hit the back of the net.
    “Like a perfect golf drive, or a six off the middle of the bat in cricket, the ball sat up for me and I connected with it perfectly.
    “It was goal of the month and then goal of the season on Match of the Day in 1972.
    “It was a moment that I’ve described many times over the last 37 years, but I have as much enthusiasm recalling it now as I did when I celebrated with my arms aloft.
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    “Supporters invaded the pitch but there was not a hint of trouble. It was just a spontaneous outpouring of excitement and joy from the Hereford faithful.
    “Everyone returned to the terraces so that play could resume.”
    Radford went on to say the FA Cup “still has that magic”, hailing its ability to draw “together a community”.
    Devastated Hereford released a statement, celebrating the life of “friendly and modest” Radford.
    It reads: “We are devastated to hear of Ronnie’s passing, and wish to extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends at this very sad time.
    “Ronnie is not just a part of Hereford United folklore, he is a part of football history and has kept Hereford on the football map since 1972. 
    “His mild manner, and friendly and modest approach to life epitomised the man he was and he was always delighted to visit Edgar Street, to meet up with past teammates and watch the present day team in action.
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    “We will always keep Ronnie close to our hearts at Edgar Street, not just at FA Cup moments, but forever and celebrate him and his huge role in propelling Hereford United to the forefront of the nations attention with that goal and being part of that team. 
    “We will carry your spirit onwards. Rest in peace Ronnie.” More

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    Masato Kudo dead aged 32: Former MLS star and Japan international tragically dies with tributes pouring in

    FORMER Japan international Masuto Kudo has tragically died at the age of 32.The football ace, who played in the MLS and Australia’s A-League, was hospitalised earlier this month after being diagnosed with hydrocephalus, a build-up of fluids within the brain.
    Kudo in action for Tegevajaro MiyazakiCredit: Rex
    He died on Friday after complications from surgery.
    Kudo had most recently been playing in the Japan’s third division with Tegevajaro Miyazaki.
    He made four appearances for the Japanese national team in 2013, bagging two goals.
    During his career he featured for MLS side Vancouver Whitecaps.
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    And during the 2020-21 season turned out for Brisbane Roar in Australia.
    The Vancouver Whitecaps have been among the many to pay tribute, saying in a statement: “Vancouver Whitecaps FC are mourning the passing of Masato Kudo.
    “Kudo was loved by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. He was kind, gracious, and his smile would light up the room.
    “Whitecaps FC offer our condolences to Kudo’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
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    Brisbane Roar head coach Warren Moon said: “I like everyone else at Brisbane Roar I am deeply saddened by the news overnight that our former teammate, player and friend Masato Kudo has passed away.
    “He had such a wonderful personality and always turned up to training every morning with a beaming smile on his face.
    “He will be greatly missed, and our hearts go out to his wife and young daughter at this sad time.”
    The club added: “Our thoughts are with Kudo’s family and friends as well as the Tegebajaro Miyazaki Football Club, its supporters and the wider community at this difficult time.”
    The J.League said in a statement: “Along with the entire Japanese football community, we mourn the passing of Masato Kudo and wish to express our most heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.” More

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    Victor Steeman’s mum tragically dies of heart attack two days after World Superbikes ace’s death following horror crash

    VICTOR STEEMAN’S mum has died just two days after her World Superbikes star son tragically passed away.Flora van Limbeek, 59, suffered a cardiac arrest at home in the Netherlands, according to Race Sport.
    Victor Steeman died just before his mum also passedCredit: Getty
    The Dutchman won four races this campaignCredit: Getty
    Steeman tragically died aged just 22 due to a horrific multi-car crash at the FIM Supersport 300 World Championship Race 1 in Portugal.
    He was one of the sport’s rising stars and was in the midst of a fantastic season, in the hunt to win the World Championships.
    The Dutchman picked up four wins and five podiums this campaign.
    His mother was his biggest fan and her passing comes just two days after Steeman’s death.
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    He died when he was involved in an awful crash on Turn 14 at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve.
    Steeman was immediately airlifted to hospital with the race red flagged.
    He was taken to Faro Hospital with serious head injuries, where he later passed away.
    Soon after his death a family statement read: “Something you have always been afraid of as a parent of a motorcycle racer has now happened. Our Victor could not win this last race.
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    “Despite the unbearable loss and grief, we are extremely proud to share with you that our hero, through his passing, was able to save five other people by donating his organs.
    “We would like to thank everyone for the way you have lived with us over the past few days. We will miss our Victor enormously.”
    All thoughts are with Steeman’s father and Van Limbeek’s wife, Willem, during this awful time. More

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    Victor Steeman dead at 22: Tributes paid to World Superbikes ace after horror multi-rider crash during championship race

    VICTOR STEEMAN has died aged 22, leaving the World Superbikes community devastated.Steeman was caught in a horrific, multi-car crash at the FIM Supersport 300 World Championship Race 1 in Portugal.
    Victor Steeman has died aged 22Credit: Getty
    The Dutchman won four races this seasonCredit: Getty
    The Dutch star was one of a number of riders to be involved in an awful crash on Turn 14 at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve.
    Steeman was immediately airlifted to hospital with the race red flagged.
    He was taken to Faro Hospital with serious head injuries, where he later passed away.
    A statement from his family read: “Something you have always been afraid of as a parent of a motorcycle racer has now happened. Our Victor could not win this last race.
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    “Despite the unbearable loss and grief, we are extremely proud to share with you that our hero, through his passing, was able to save five other people by donating his organs.
    “We would like to thank everyone for the way you have lived with us over the past few days. We will miss our Victor enormously.”
    Steeman was in the midst of a brilliant campaign, picking up four wins and five podiums.
    His performances saw him still in the hunt to win the World Championship.
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    Plenty of tributes have been paid to Steeman.
    WorldSBK wrote on social media: “We’re deeply saddened to report the loss of WorldSSP300 rider Victor Steeman.
    “The WorldSBK family would like to send all our love to his family, team and loved ones. A great personality, a fierce racer and a legacy left embedded in our paddock forever.
    “Ride in Peace, Victor.”
    MotoGP added: “It’s with great sadness that we have learned about the passing of WorldSSP 300 rider Victor Steeman.
    “All within the MotoGP family send our condolences to the family, friends and team of Victor at this difficult time.
    “Ride in Peace, Victor.”
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    Rider Glenn Irwin wrote: “Rest in peace Victor Steeman. Taken way too soon.”
    While Iker Lecuona added: “My deepest condolences to the family, friends and acquaintances, as well as @victorsteeman’s team, we will remember you.” More

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    John Duncan dead aged 73: Tributes pour in for ex-Tottenham star and manager of Chesterfield’s heroic 1997 FA Cup run

    JOHN DUNCAN, the former Tottenham striker who guided Chesterfield to a historic FA Cup semi-final as a manager, has died aged 73.Duncan averaged more than a goal every other game for Spurs with 62 goals in 118 appearances.
    John Duncan was a legendary forward beloved by Spurs fansCredit: Rex
    Duncan inspired Chesterfield to the FA Cup semi-finalsCredit: Rex
    The former Dundee man also played for Derby County and Scunthorpe before becoming a manager.
    Duncan managed Scunthorpe, Hartlepool United, Chesterfield and Ipswich Town.
    His greatest success as a manager came in a second spell at Chesterfield, taking the second division side to the FA Cup semi-finals in 1997, where they lost to Middlesbrough in a replay.
    Manchester United legend, Sir Alex Ferguson said: “John had such humility and a great sense of humour and I spoke with him only a matter of weeks ago.
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    “I will miss seeing him and I send my deepest condolences to his daughters, his sister, his partner and their families.”
    Former Tottenham team-mate and England assistant manager, John Gorman said: “John was a great team-mate and friend.
    “He continued to do brilliant work after his career with the LMA helping lots of people with their injuries or illnesses, including myself.
    “He was always there for you and will be sorely missed by everyone.”
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    Duncan’s former player, Sean Dyche, added: “I worked with John for a number of years whilst at Chesterfield FC through some of the best years in the club’s history.
    “He was an excellent manager who always worked to get the best out of all of his staff and players in order to mould a team into one that could challenge and be successful.
    “He was not only a manager to me, as he became a friend and a mentor as my career progressed from player to coach and onto being a manager.”
    Former Tottenham star Micky Hazard wrote on social media: “Just heard the very sad news that our former player John Duncan has passed away, very very sad.
    “Go fly with the angels John and say hi to all our former heroes.”
    While Spurs legend Steve Perryman, who made a club-record 854 appearances for the Lilywhites, wrote: “Huge respect to the loss of our great friend & colleague John Duncan.
    “Rest Peacefully Sir, I will never forget your considered & educated take on life with a goal scoring knack that was effective as much as surprising at times with a touch of character + understanding too.”
    Former Bolton and Chesterfield striker Kevin Davies tweeted: “Absolutely gutted to lose my first pro manager and good friend John Duncan today.
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    “Always there for me personally and professionally. So much to thank him for. Called me last week for a chat even though he was unwell, lost one of the good guys, thanks John.”
    And ex-Spurs and Barcelona star Steve Archibald wrote: “Very sad to hear of the passing of John Duncan, lovely man and great player, hugely respected at Spurs and in the game, great goalscorer, RIP my friend, my most sincere and heartfelt condolences to John’s family.”
    Duncan scored 62 times in 118 games for SpursCredit: Rex More

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    Why are Tottenham and Brighton wearing black armbands during their game tonight?

    TOTTENHAM host Brighton tonight in their Premier League clash.And both sets of players are set to wear black armbands in the game at Brighton.
    Tottenham are paying their respects to late fitness coach Gian Piero Ventrone
    Why are Tottenham and Brighton wearing black armbands?
    The teams are wearing black armbands in tribute to Tottenham fitness coach Gian Piero Ventrone.
    Ventrone passed away this week after a short battle with acute leukaemia.
    The popular Italian arrived at Spurs alongside Antonio Conte in November 2021 and was a trusted ally of the former Chelsea boss.
    Ventrone built a reputation of working players extremely hard, but still managed to build up an incredible rapport with them.
    In a tragic turn of events, Tottenham confirmed: “We are devastated to announce that fitness coach Gian Piero Ventrone has passed away.
    “The 61-year-old joined the Club in November, 2021, as part of Antonio Conte’s backroom staff, having previously held roles at Juventus, Catania, JS Suning, GZ Evergrande and AC Ajaccio.
    “As loveable off the pitch as he was demanding on it, Gian Piero quickly became a hugely popular figure with players and staff.
    “He will be greatly missed by everyone at the Club and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this impossibly sad time.”
    Harry Kane with Gian Piero VentroneCredit: Getty
    Devastated striker Kane wrote on Instagram: “A truly remarkable man.
    “I’m devastated by the passing of our coach Gian Piero. My love and strength is with his family at this time.
    “His words and wisdom will live on with me for the rest of my life and I’m just grateful I had the opportunity to spend time with him. Rest in peace Prof.”

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    Phil Read dead at 83: Seven-time motorcycle GP world champion and ‘Prince of Speed’ passes away as tributes pour in

    PHIL READ has died aged 83, his family have confirmed.The seven-time motorcycle GP world champion passed away peacefully in his sleep yesterday.
    Legendary racer Phil Read has passed awayCredit: Getty
    Read remained involved in the sport as he got olderCredit: Getty
    Read was a legendary figure in motorcycle racing – winning Yamaha’s first ever world championship title in 1964.
    He would go on to add four more with the Japanese-Italian team before adding another pair in 1973 and 1974 for MV Agusta.
    Read’s achievements led to him receiving an MBE in 1979 for for “services to motor cycle racing”.
    In a statement posted online, the Read family paid tribute to the much-beloved former racer dubbed by fans as the “Prince of Speed”.
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    It read: “It is with incredible sadness that the Read family reports the passing of Phil Read MBE while peacefully asleep on the morning of October 6th, 2022, at his home in Canterbury, England.
    “Phil is best known for winning Yamaha’s first world championship title in 1964 with four more Yamaha-mounted titles including one fought as a privateer, plus two premier class 500cc world championships in 1973 and 1974 for the Italian MV Agusta marque.
    “Often a controversial and outspoken figure, his prolific racing career included 52 FIM Grand Prix wins and eight wins at the iconic Isle of Man TT Races. In 2002 he was granted the status of “MotoGP Legend” by Dorna.
    “Phil is survived by his sons Michael, Graham, Phil Jr, Roki and daughter Esme’. Further details on any public celebrations of life will be shared.”
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    Following the sad news of Read’s death, Moto GP paid tribute – writing: “All at MotoGP are saddened to learn of the passing of Phil Read
    “A 7-time World Champion, Phil helped to elevate our sport to a new level
    “His impact on the motorcycle racing community will never be forgotten. Our thoughts are with his family and friends. Rest in peace, Phil.”
    Former GP rider Steve Parrish wrote: “So sad to hear the passing of Phil Read. One of the most talented riders to come from the UK.
    “I will never forget him coming to my house, with glamorous wife Madeline.
    “In a Rolls corniche, it was like Queen had arrived.”
    MotoGP star Joan Mir added: “Rest in peace, legend.”
    One fan tweeted: “RIP Phil Read. One of the greatest and hardest motorcycle racers of all time.
    “What a character, in both good and bad ways. A minutes silence will be required at Phillip Island next week.”
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    A second posted: “I got to spend time with Phil these past 15 years having fun at classic events. Phil was one of the greats of all time! R.I.P Phil Read.”
    A third added: “So sorry to hear that the legend Phil Read passed away, he made me laugh, wasn’t PC at all and he upset many without meaning to, which made me like him all the more.”
    Read hoists the trophy aloft after winning the British Junior Championship race in 1963Credit: Getty
    The outspoken star became one Britain’s most successful ever racersCredit: Getty More