French driver Romain Grosjean is set to sit out of next weekend’s Formula One race after miraculously escaping a high-speed crash at the Bahrain Grand Prix. The Haas driver received burns to his hands.&nbsp;

Grosjean escaped the wreckage after colliding with Alpha Tauri’s Daniil Kyvyat on the first lap of Sunday’s race. The Haas car split in half and burst into flames after smashing through the barriers at 225 kph.

Haas said Grosjean’s treatment was “going well” and a discharge from hospital is expected on Tuesday.

Grosjean’s escape is being credited to the integrity of his car survival cell, his ‘halo’ device, which deflected the metal barriers away from his head and Grosjean’s own presence of mind as he remained calm to pull himself out along with skilled assistance of F1’s medical staff and track marshals.&nbsp;

Related Story:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-romain-grosjean-survives-horrific-f1-crash-after-car-engulfs-in-flames-at-bahrain-gp-346391" hreflang="en">WATCH: Romain Grosjean survives horrific F1 crash after car engulfs in flames at Bahrain GP</a>

"Hello everyone, I just wanted to say I'm okay, well, sort of okay," the Frenchman said in an Instagram post. "Thank you very much for all the messages.

"I wasn’t for the 'halo' some years ago, but I think it's the greatest thing we brought to Formula One and, without it, I wouldn't be able to speak to you today."

The grandson of two-time world champion Emerson Fittipaldi and Brazilian driver Pietro Fittipaldi is set to make his

Formula One debut in the Sakhir Grand Prix next Sunday as he replaces Grosjean.&nbsp;

"After it was decided that the best thing for Romain was to skip at least one race the choice was pretty easy," said team principal Guenther Steiner.

"Pietro is familiar with us and it's the right thing to do."

The 24-year-old tested with Haas in 2018 and 2019.

"Most importantly, I'm happy Romain is safe and healthy," said Fittipaldi.&nbsp;

"We are all happy his injuries are relatively minor after such a huge accident. Obviously it's not an ideal set of circumstances to get my first opportunity."

(From AFP inputs)

French driver Romain Grosjean is set to sit out of next weekend’s Formula One race after miraculously escaping a high-speed crash at the Bahrain Grand Prix. The Haas driver received burns to his hands.

French driver Romain Grosjean is set to sit out of next weekend’s Formula One race after miraculously escaping a high-speed crash at the Bahrain Grand Prix. The Haas driver received burns to his hands. Grosjean escaped the wreckage after colliding with Alpha Tauri’s Daniil Kyvyat on the first lap of Sunday’s race. The Haas car split in half and burst into flames after smashing through the barriers at 225 kph. Haas said Grosjean’s treatment was “going well” and a discharge from hospital is expected on Tuesday. Grosjean’s escape is being credited to the integrity of his car survival cell, his ‘halo’ device, which deflected the metal barriers away from his head and Grosjean’s own presence of mind as he remained calm to pull himself out along with skilled assistance of F1’s medical staff and track marshals. Related Story: WATCH: Romain Grosjean survives horrific F1 crash after car engulfs in flames at Bahrain GP "Hello everyone, I just wanted to say I'm okay, well, sort of okay," the Frenchman said in an Instagram post. "Thank you very much for all the messages. "I wasn’t for the 'halo' some years ago, but I think it's the greatest thing we brought to Formula One and, without it, I wouldn't be able to speak to you today." The grandson of two-time world champion Emerson Fittipaldi and Brazilian driver Pietro Fittipaldi is set to make his Formula One debut in the Sakhir Grand Prix next Sunday as he replaces Grosjean. "After it was decided that the best thing for Romain was to skip at least one race the choice was pretty easy," said team principal Guenther Steiner. "Pietro is familiar with us and it's the right thing to do." The 24-year-old tested with Haas in 2018 and 2019. "Most importantly, I'm happy Romain is safe and healthy," said Fittipaldi. "We are all happy his injuries are relatively minor after such a huge accident. Obviously it's not an ideal set of circumstances to get my first opportunity." (From AFP inputs)

Romain Grosjean ruled out of next F1 Grand Prix after fiery crash

Haas driver Romain Grojean on Sunday suffered a horrific crash, arguably one of the worst in the history of F1, which left the Frenchman receiving hospital treatment for burns as he defied all the odds to jump out of the blazing car following a crash in the Bahrain Grand Prix, which was won by the record-breaker Lewis Hamilton.&nbsp;

Grosjean lost control of his car after colliding with the front left wheel of Daniil Kvyat’s Alpha Tauri in what was an intense battle for position at Turn Three of the opening lap. Grosjean, travelling at 250 km/h, hammered into the steel guardrails which buckled immediately. Trapped in his cockpit, Grosjean flew under the steel barrier as his car burst into flames.

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This is just ASTONISHING. Only just seen the helicopter footage of Romain Grosjean's crash today, and the actions of the marshal who saved his life. Thankfully see <a href="https://twitter.com/RGrosjean?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RGrosjean</a> TL for good news on relatively minor injuries. Incredible.<a href="https://t.co/PoGNegedvv">pic.twitter.com/PoGNegedvv</a>
— Nick Harris (@sportingintel) <a href="https://twitter.com/sportingintel/status/1333158669169680385?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Analysts said that his car’s safety had saved his life as he careered through the barrier before F1’s medical team and marshals with fire extinguishers helped him escape. Grosjean is doing fine and received some minor burns for which he is being treated at a hospital.

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Dr Ian Roberts and F1 Medical Car driver Alan van der Merwe discuss those crucial few seconds following <a href="https://twitter.com/RGrosjean?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RGrosjean</a>'s crash in Bahrain 
 
An amazing response by all involved <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BahrainGP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BahrainGP</a> 🇧🇭 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/F1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#F1</a> <a href="https://t.co/oY2TDffBR3">pic.twitter.com/oY2TDffBR3</a>
— Formula 1 (@F1) <a href="https://twitter.com/F1/status/1333186795094364160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

"Hello everyone, just wanted to say I'm okay, well, sort of okay," said Grosjean from his hospital bed in a video posted on social media.

"Thank you very much for all the messages."

"I wasn't for the halo some years ago but I think it's the greatest thing we brought to Formula 1 and without it I wouldn't be able to speak to you today," he added.

Seven-time world champion Hamilton took the chequered flag ahead of Red Bull’s Max Verstappen and was quick to hail the safety standards in F1.&nbsp;

"It was such a shocking image to see," said Hamilton, who like all of the drivers had a near 90-minute wait for the restart after the horrific opening lap crash. He used the pause to tweet on safety.

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An update from Romain himself. Pleased to see you’re in good spirits! We hope you make a speedy recovery 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/njnjjH4GBi">pic.twitter.com/njnjjH4GBi</a>
— Haas F1 Team (@HaasF1Team) <a href="https://twitter.com/HaasF1Team/status/1333140470604701699?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"When I get in the car, I know I am taking risks. I respect the dangers that are in this sport. I posted about it during the break because it is horrifying.

"The car, the cockpit. I don't know what Gs he pulled, but I'm just so grateful the halo worked.

"It could have been so much worse, but I think it is a reminder to us and hopefully to the people that are watching that this is a dangerous sport. We are out there pushing to the limit and playing with that limit, but you always have to respect it.

"It shows what an amazing job Formula One and the FIA have done for him to be able to walk away from something like that, but it will be investigated -- and they will do an awful lot of work to make sure something like that does not happen again."

Romain Grosjean remained hospital overnight to be treated for burns sustained on the back of both hands. All X-rays performed on Grosjean came back clear of fractures.

Haas driver Romain Grojean on Sunday suffered a horrific crash, arguably one of the worst in the history of F1, which left the Frenchman receiving hospital treatment for burns as he defied all the odds to jump out of the blazing car following a crash in the Bahrain Grand Prix, which was won by the record-breaker Lewis Hamilton.

Haas driver Romain Grojean on Sunday suffered a horrific crash, arguably one of the worst in the history of F1, which left the Frenchman receiving hospital treatment for burns as he defied all the odds to jump out of the blazing car following a crash in the Bahrain Grand Prix, which was won by the record-breaker Lewis Hamilton. Grosjean lost control of his car after colliding with the front left wheel of Daniil Kvyat’s Alpha Tauri in what was an intense battle for position at Turn Three of the opening lap. Grosjean, travelling at 250 km/h, hammered into the steel guardrails which buckled immediately. Trapped in his cockpit, Grosjean flew under the steel barrier as his car burst into flames. This is just ASTONISHING. Only just seen the helicopter footage of Romain Grosjean's crash today, and the actions of the marshal who saved his life. Thankfully see @RGrosjean TL for good news on relatively minor injuries. Incredible.pic.twitter.com/PoGNegedvv — Nick Harris (@sportingintel) November 29, 2020 × Analysts said that his car’s safety had saved his life as he careered through the barrier before F1’s medical team and marshals with fire extinguishers helped him escape. Grosjean is doing fine and received some minor burns for which he is being treated at a hospital. Dr Ian Roberts and F1 Medical Car driver Alan van der Merwe discuss those crucial few seconds following @RGrosjean's crash in Bahrain An amazing response by all involved #BahrainGP 🇧🇭 #F1 pic.twitter.com/oY2TDffBR3 — Formula 1 (@F1) November 29, 2020 × "Hello everyone, just wanted to say I'm okay, well, sort of okay," said Grosjean from his hospital bed in a video posted on social media. "Thank you very much for all the messages." "I wasn't for the halo some years ago but I think it's the greatest thing we brought to Formula 1 and without it I wouldn't be able to speak to you today," he added. Seven-time world champion Hamilton took the chequered flag ahead of Red Bull’s Max Verstappen and was quick to hail the safety standards in F1. "It was such a shocking image to see," said Hamilton, who like all of the drivers had a near 90-minute wait for the restart after the horrific opening lap crash. He used the pause to tweet on safety. An update from Romain himself. Pleased to see you’re in good spirits! We hope you make a speedy recovery 🙏 pic.twitter.com/njnjjH4GBi — Haas F1 Team (@HaasF1Team) November 29, 2020 × "When I get in the car, I know I am taking risks. I respect the dangers that are in this sport. I posted about it during the break because it is horrifying. "The car, the cockpit. I don't know what Gs he pulled, but I'm just so grateful the halo worked. "It could have been so much worse, but I think it is a reminder to us and hopefully to the people that are watching that this is a dangerous sport. We are out there pushing to the limit and playing with that limit, but you always have to respect it. "It shows what an amazing job Formula One and the FIA have done for him to be able to walk away from something like that, but it will be investigated -- and they will do an awful lot of work to make sure something like that does not happen again." Romain Grosjean remained hospital overnight to be treated for burns sustained on the back of both hands. All X-rays performed on Grosjean came back clear of fractures.

WATCH: Romain Grosjean survives horrific F1 crash after car engulfs in flames at Bahrain GP

Lewis Hamilton revealed on Thursday that he feels he has not yet processed the impact of his achievement in claiming a record-equalling seventh title to become F1’s most successful driver.

The 35-year-old Mercedes driver pulled level with Michael Schumacher when he secured his seventh title and his sixth in seven years with a momentous win at the Turkish Grand Prix two weeks ago.

He said, however, that he felt just as fired up to win the three season-ending races in the Middle East after ‘switching off’ and relaxing since that triumph. &nbsp;

“It's in my DNA,” he told reporters. “It's how I’m wired. I just love that challenge. We're coming into three races where the pressure is different, but the focus is too.

“It's about getting the best performances out of these weekends, but it's also how can we extract a little bit more?

“How can we learn more from these weekends, almost using them as test races, so that we can apply what we learn in these three particularly, and what we've learned this year, into next year's car?”

Hamilton said he had used the respite from constant pressure to allow him to re-charge for the final races.“I've generally just switched off,” he said.

“It's been really bad in the sense that I've got a lot of messages and I'm trying to catch up now.”

He also revealed that ‘the dream’ of racing for Ferrari “just wasn’t meant to be”.

Hamilton admitted he spoke to Ferrari president John Elkann last year, but never felt he was ready to leave Mercedes with whom he is expected to re-sign for the future before the end of this season.

“I was never close at all to leaving my team," he said. "I think it's only right that as drivers and as people when you're looking at your next phases and committing to periods of time in your life, you have to analyse what your options are -- and make sure you have done your due diligence and have the pros and cons.

“I don't necessarily know that our values are aligned and timing-wise, it just wasn't meant to be. I'm not bothered by it. I'm so proud and grateful for the journey that I have with Mercedes.”

Hamilton also pointed out that his points advantage ahead of team-mate Valtteri Bottas in this year’s title race had been exaggerated by the Finn’s bad luck.

He said Bottas had become stronger each year. "You've seen this year that while yes, the points gap now is where it is, if you look at a lot of the qualifying, it was the smallest of margins.

“So closing the gap in qualifying, he has done already, which has made it quite challenging… If you look at race weekends, it has been so close. Valtteri has been unfortunate this year with reliability issues so that makes the gap look bigger than it is.”

Hamilton added: “I think you've got to remember who he's driving up against – it's not easy being my team-mate, but he comes in weekend in, weekend out, with just the same mentality.

“He's never moaning or complaining that something is wrong with the car. It's always just - 'I've got to do a better job'…. Mentally, he’s one of the strongest drivers here.”

Lewis Hamilton revealed on Thursday that he feels he has not yet processed the impact of his achievement in claiming a record-equalling seventh title to become F1’s most successful driver.

Lewis Hamilton revealed on Thursday that he feels he has not yet processed the impact of his achievement in claiming a record-equalling seventh title to become F1’s most successful driver. The 35-year-old Mercedes driver pulled level with Michael Schumacher when he secured his seventh title and his sixth in seven years with a momentous win at the Turkish Grand Prix two weeks ago. He said, however, that he felt just as fired up to win the three season-ending races in the Middle East after ‘switching off’ and relaxing since that triumph. “It's in my DNA,” he told reporters. “It's how I’m wired. I just love that challenge. We're coming into three races where the pressure is different, but the focus is too. “It's about getting the best performances out of these weekends, but it's also how can we extract a little bit more? “How can we learn more from these weekends, almost using them as test races, so that we can apply what we learn in these three particularly, and what we've learned this year, into next year's car?” Hamilton said he had used the respite from constant pressure to allow him to re-charge for the final races.“I've generally just switched off,” he said. “It's been really bad in the sense that I've got a lot of messages and I'm trying to catch up now.” He also revealed that ‘the dream’ of racing for Ferrari “just wasn’t meant to be”. Hamilton admitted he spoke to Ferrari president John Elkann last year, but never felt he was ready to leave Mercedes with whom he is expected to re-sign for the future before the end of this season. “I was never close at all to leaving my team," he said. "I think it's only right that as drivers and as people when you're looking at your next phases and committing to periods of time in your life, you have to analyse what your options are -- and make sure you have done your due diligence and have the pros and cons. “I don't necessarily know that our values are aligned and timing-wise, it just wasn't meant to be. I'm not bothered by it. I'm so proud and grateful for the journey that I have with Mercedes.” Hamilton also pointed out that his points advantage ahead of team-mate Valtteri Bottas in this year’s title race had been exaggerated by the Finn’s bad luck. He said Bottas had become stronger each year. "You've seen this year that while yes, the points gap now is where it is, if you look at a lot of the qualifying, it was the smallest of margins. “So closing the gap in qualifying, he has done already, which has made it quite challenging… If you look at race weekends, it has been so close. Valtteri has been unfortunate this year with reliability issues so that makes the gap look bigger than it is.” Hamilton added: “I think you've got to remember who he's driving up against – it's not easy being my team-mate, but he comes in weekend in, weekend out, with just the same mentality. “He's never moaning or complaining that something is wrong with the car. It's always just - 'I've got to do a better job'…. Mentally, he’s one of the strongest drivers here.”

Hamilton remains focused despite record-equalling seventh title

A hearse bearing the flag-draped coffin of Argentine football legend Diego Maradona rolled through the center of Buenos Aires Thursday as thousands of fans bade him a final farewell.

Amid blaring sirens and surrounded by motorcycle police outriders, the funeral cortege swept quickly through the streets around the presidential palace, where thousands of fans had filed past Maradona's coffin since early morning.&nbsp;

The lying in state, which had been extended to cope with the crowds surrounding the palace, was cut short by the family and officials after unruly fans took over an inner courtyard of the presidency.

Police then clashed with fans in the city center as the event threatened to descend into chaos.

The cortege avoided the main 9 de Julio avenue where many fans had gathered, and instead sped onto a highway out of the capital, following by dozens of photographers and cameramen on motorbikes.

Maradona was to be laid to rest at the Jardin de Paz cemetery on the outskirts of the Argentine capital after a private family ceremony.&nbsp;

A hearse bearing the flag-draped coffin of Argentine football legend Diego Maradona rolled through the center of Buenos Aires Thursday as thousands of fans bade him a final farewell.

A hearse bearing the flag-draped coffin of Argentine football legend Diego Maradona rolled through the center of Buenos Aires Thursday as thousands of fans bade him a final farewell. Amid blaring sirens and surrounded by motorcycle police outriders, the funeral cortege swept quickly through the streets around the presidential palace, where thousands of fans had filed past Maradona's coffin since early morning. The lying in state, which had been extended to cope with the crowds surrounding the palace, was cut short by the family and officials after unruly fans took over an inner courtyard of the presidency. Police then clashed with fans in the city center as the event threatened to descend into chaos. The cortege avoided the main 9 de Julio avenue where many fans had gathered, and instead sped onto a highway out of the capital, following by dozens of photographers and cameramen on motorbikes. Maradona was to be laid to rest at the Jardin de Paz cemetery on the outskirts of the Argentine capital after a private family ceremony.

Maradona funeral cortege heads to cemetery near Buenos Aires

India suffered a blow Friday with fast bowler Ishant Sharma ruled out of their Test series against Australia, as skipper Virat Kohli blasted a lack of clarity over the fate of star opener Rohit Sharma.

Ishant has been struggling with a side strain picked up during the Indian Premier League, and while he has recovered officials said he was not match fit.

"While he's building up his workload in order to achieve Test match fitness, Ishant Sharma has been ruled out of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy," the Indian cricket board said in a statement.

Senior batsman Rohit hurt his hamstring last month and will have another assessment on December 11, six days before the opening day-night Test in Adelaide.

Complicating matters was his father falling ill in Mumbai, which delayed Rohit's arrival at India's National Cricket Academy to begin his rehab.

Kohli said the way the matter had been handled was "very confusing" and that both players should be in Australia to complete their recoveries.

"It definitely would have increased the chances of both of them playing Test matches," he said in video comments from his hotel room in Sydney ahead of the opening one-dayer against Australia on Friday.

Kohli, who has been undergoing a mandatory 14-day quarantine along with the rest of the India squad, said he was expecting Rohit to be on the plane to Australia with everyone else.

"We had no information whatsoever on the reason why he's not travelling with us," said the skipper, who will return home after the opening Test for the birth of his first child.

"And after that, the only other information officially we've received by mail is that he's in the NCA and he's been assessed and he'll be further assessed on December 11.

"So from the time that the selection meeting happened to the IPL finishing and now when this email came about his assessment in the NCA, there's been no information.

"There's been a lack of clarity and we've been playing the waiting game on this issue for a while now which is not ideal at all. So it's been very confusing and there's been a lot of uncertainty and a lack of clarity around the situation."

India play four Tests against Australia in Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane following their six-match limited overs series.

India suffered a blow Friday with fast bowler Ishant Sharma ruled out of their Test series against Australia, as skipper Virat Kohli blasted a lack of clarity over the fate of star opener Rohit Sharma.

India suffered a blow Friday with fast bowler Ishant Sharma ruled out of their Test series against Australia, as skipper Virat Kohli blasted a lack of clarity over the fate of star opener Rohit Sharma. Ishant has been struggling with a side strain picked up during the Indian Premier League, and while he has recovered officials said he was not match fit. "While he's building up his workload in order to achieve Test match fitness, Ishant Sharma has been ruled out of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy," the Indian cricket board said in a statement. Senior batsman Rohit hurt his hamstring last month and will have another assessment on December 11, six days before the opening day-night Test in Adelaide. Complicating matters was his father falling ill in Mumbai, which delayed Rohit's arrival at India's National Cricket Academy to begin his rehab. Kohli said the way the matter had been handled was "very confusing" and that both players should be in Australia to complete their recoveries. "It definitely would have increased the chances of both of them playing Test matches," he said in video comments from his hotel room in Sydney ahead of the opening one-dayer against Australia on Friday. Kohli, who has been undergoing a mandatory 14-day quarantine along with the rest of the India squad, said he was expecting Rohit to be on the plane to Australia with everyone else. "We had no information whatsoever on the reason why he's not travelling with us," said the skipper, who will return home after the opening Test for the birth of his first child. "And after that, the only other information officially we've received by mail is that he's in the NCA and he's been assessed and he'll be further assessed on December 11. "So from the time that the selection meeting happened to the IPL finishing and now when this email came about his assessment in the NCA, there's been no information. "There's been a lack of clarity and we've been playing the waiting game on this issue for a while now which is not ideal at all. So it's been very confusing and there's been a lot of uncertainty and a lack of clarity around the situation." India play four Tests against Australia in Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane following their six-match limited overs series.

Ishant Sharma out of Australia series as Kohli blasts 'confusing' messages

Napoli's players honoured club legend Diego Maradona on Thursday by stepping out onto the pitch wearing his number 10 jersey before their 2-0 Europa League win over Rijeka.

"Diego is a legend and will never die," said Napoli coach Gennaro Gattuso.

"Since yesterday you could see that the city breathed a different atmosphere.

"We hope to dedicate something important to him and win a trophy.

"In this city we have talked about it for too many years."

Rijeka did not spoil the tribute with Napoli beating their modest rivals thanks to an own-goal from the visitor's Italian left-back Armando Anastasio before the break.

The Naples-born player took a touch to a Matteo Politano goal-bound effort, and was credited with the goal.&nbsp;

Hirving Lozano sealed victory with quarter of an hour to go, firing in a Lorenzo Insigne cross.

Gattuso's side ended their two-match losing streak at their home stadium to take top place in Group F with Rijeka bottom without a win in four games.

"I have many good memories," recalled Gattuso.

"I had the opportunity to talk many times with Diego, to have dinner several times with him.&nbsp;

"He has done so many extraordinary things. He made mistakes in his private life, but for what he did he will remain always alive.&nbsp;

"Diego came from another planet and he will live forever like all legends.

"I would have liked to tackle him as a player," added former Italy World Cup winner Gattuso.

Captain Insigne had earlier led the tributes alongside fans gathered outside the San Paolo Stadium before the game, Napoli's first since Maradona's death at the age of 60 on Wednesday.

All wearing black armbands, the team also wore Maradona's iconic jersey during the team presentation and minute's silence, under a photo projected on a large screen of the man who led Napoli to league titles in 1987 and 1990 and the UEFA Cup in 1989.

Throughout the day, supporters thronged in front of the San Paolo stadium, which could soon be renamed in honour of Maradona.&nbsp;

"I believe it is right to baptise the San Paolo with your name to still have you with us," wrote club president Aurelio de Laurentiis on the club's website.

A plaque was put up on the gates of the stadium which read "Diego Armando Maradona Stadium" and bore the face of the fans' Argentine hero.

Blue-white scarves, flowers, photos of Maradona and shirts stamped with number 10 were left in memory of the player whose seven seasons between 1984-1991 left an indelible mark on Neapolitans.

An hour before kick-off, there were still several hundred fans singing in front of the stadium.

Other Neapolitans, even more numerous, gathered in Piazza del Plebiscito in the centre of Naples.&nbsp;

Shortly before the match, Insigne and former Napoli storekeeper, Tommaso Starace, left the stadium to join the tributes by laying a wreath at the foot of the gates.

"Maradona means a lot, not just to me but to all Neapolitans. He has always stood up for us, he has always held us in his heart and we must do the same," said Insigne.

A few hundred fans remained outside the stadium during the game but most left before kick-off.

The Europa League match took place behind closed doors, like all matches in Italy because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Napoli's players honoured club legend Diego Maradona on Thursday by stepping out onto the pitch wearing his number 10 jersey before their 2-0 Europa League win over Rijeka.

Napoli's players honoured club legend Diego Maradona on Thursday by stepping out onto the pitch wearing his number 10 jersey before their 2-0 Europa League win over Rijeka. "Diego is a legend and will never die," said Napoli coach Gennaro Gattuso. "Since yesterday you could see that the city breathed a different atmosphere. "We hope to dedicate something important to him and win a trophy. "In this city we have talked about it for too many years." Rijeka did not spoil the tribute with Napoli beating their modest rivals thanks to an own-goal from the visitor's Italian left-back Armando Anastasio before the break. The Naples-born player took a touch to a Matteo Politano goal-bound effort, and was credited with the goal. Hirving Lozano sealed victory with quarter of an hour to go, firing in a Lorenzo Insigne cross. Gattuso's side ended their two-match losing streak at their home stadium to take top place in Group F with Rijeka bottom without a win in four games. "I have many good memories," recalled Gattuso. "I had the opportunity to talk many times with Diego, to have dinner several times with him. "He has done so many extraordinary things. He made mistakes in his private life, but for what he did he will remain always alive. "Diego came from another planet and he will live forever like all legends. "I would have liked to tackle him as a player," added former Italy World Cup winner Gattuso. Captain Insigne had earlier led the tributes alongside fans gathered outside the San Paolo Stadium before the game, Napoli's first since Maradona's death at the age of 60 on Wednesday. All wearing black armbands, the team also wore Maradona's iconic jersey during the team presentation and minute's silence, under a photo projected on a large screen of the man who led Napoli to league titles in 1987 and 1990 and the UEFA Cup in 1989. Throughout the day, supporters thronged in front of the San Paolo stadium, which could soon be renamed in honour of Maradona. "I believe it is right to baptise the San Paolo with your name to still have you with us," wrote club president Aurelio de Laurentiis on the club's website. A plaque was put up on the gates of the stadium which read "Diego Armando Maradona Stadium" and bore the face of the fans' Argentine hero. Blue-white scarves, flowers, photos of Maradona and shirts stamped with number 10 were left in memory of the player whose seven seasons between 1984-1991 left an indelible mark on Neapolitans. An hour before kick-off, there were still several hundred fans singing in front of the stadium. Other Neapolitans, even more numerous, gathered in Piazza del Plebiscito in the centre of Naples. Shortly before the match, Insigne and former Napoli storekeeper, Tommaso Starace, left the stadium to join the tributes by laying a wreath at the foot of the gates. "Maradona means a lot, not just to me but to all Neapolitans. He has always stood up for us, he has always held us in his heart and we must do the same," said Insigne. A few hundred fans remained outside the stadium during the game but most left before kick-off. The Europa League match took place behind closed doors, like all matches in Italy because of the coronavirus pandemic.

'Diego will never die:' Napoli honour Maradona with Europa League win

Jose Mourinho takes his table-topping Tottenham side to former club Chelsea this weekend determined to prove he is back where he belongs at the top of the Premier League.

Four straight wins have taken Spurs to 20 points after nine games, ahead of Liverpool on goal difference, but Frank Lampard's Chelsea are just two points behind them.

Champions Liverpool travel to Brighton, while goal-shy Manchester City host Burnley in the unaccustomed position of 13th in the table and Arsenal seek&nbsp;a win to lift them out of their slump.

AFP Sport looks at some of the main talking points ahead of the weekend action in the Premier League.

<h2>Mourinho has point to prove</h2>

Spurs boss Mourinho has a point to prove against Lampard, with whom he won two Premier League titles at Stamford Bridge.

Mourinho and the former Chelsea midfielder-turned-manager have met four times in different dugouts.

Lampard gave Mourinho a bloody nose when his Derby side dumped Manchester United, then managed by the Mourinho, out of the League Cup on penalties in 2018.

After returning to Chelsea as manager, Lampard twice outwitted his former boss, by now in charge at Tottenham, in the Premier League last season.

The 57-year-old veteran will be hoping this season's League Cup win against Chelsea on penalties has turned the tide. He has never lost three consecutive league matches against the same manager or club before.

Mourinho was keen to play down title talk after last week's impressive 2-0 win at home to Manchester City, which took them top.

"People cannot expect us to come here and after one season we are fighting for the title," he told the BBC.&nbsp;

"We are not fighting for the title, we are just fighting to win every match. But we are going to lose matches, we are going to draw matches."

But, like it or not, Spurs&nbsp;are in the title mix and will have to get used to the pressure, which will be ramped up on Sunday.

<h2>Can Arteta stop the rot?</h2>

Arsenal's indifferent start to the season has left them languishing 12th in the Premier League table, with just four points from their past five matches.&nbsp;

Mikel Arteta, whose side host Wolves on Sunday, remains optimistic despite his side's poor run and struggles in front of goal -- Arsenal have now not scored from open play in five Premier League games.

"When I see the young talents we have got here and the future that we can produce for them, it's things that get me really excited," he said.

"We know that we are going to go through difficult periods because you don't change issues that have been going on for years in a small amount of time."

Fans have been patient so far with their manager, who arrived late last year, but will start to get edgy unless they see an upturn in results soon.

<h2>City search for goals</h2>

Manchester City, who host Burnley on Saturday, have not scored more than once in a Premier League match since September.

It was the same old story last weekend. City had 22 shots in their 2-0 defeat against Tottenham, who mustered just four shots, with two on target.

The club's record goalscorer, Sergio Aguero, had a brief runout in Wednesday's 1-0 win at Olympiakos as he makes his way back to fitness following a hamstring injury.

City boss Guardiola said this week he was being cautious with the Argentine striker.

"We have many, many games to play this season and we'll need him," he said. "What we want is him to recover in his best condition."

But it is a difficult balancing act for the manager, whose side are already eight points behind Spurs and Liverpool.

Fixtures (all times GMT)

Friday

Crystal Palace v Newcastle (2000)

Jose Mourinho takes his table-topping Tottenham side to former club Chelsea this weekend determined to prove he is back where he belongs at the top of the Premier League.

Jose Mourinho takes his table-topping Tottenham side to former club Chelsea this weekend determined to prove he is back where he belongs at the top of the Premier League. Four straight wins have taken Spurs to 20 points after nine games, ahead of Liverpool on goal difference, but Frank Lampard's Chelsea are just two points behind them. Champions Liverpool travel to Brighton, while goal-shy Manchester City host Burnley in the unaccustomed position of 13th in the table and Arsenal seek a win to lift them out of their slump. AFP Sport looks at some of the main talking points ahead of the weekend action in the Premier League. Mourinho has point to prove Spurs boss Mourinho has a point to prove against Lampard, with whom he won two Premier League titles at Stamford Bridge. Mourinho and the former Chelsea midfielder-turned-manager have met four times in different dugouts. Lampard gave Mourinho a bloody nose when his Derby side dumped Manchester United, then managed by the Mourinho, out of the League Cup on penalties in 2018. After returning to Chelsea as manager, Lampard twice outwitted his former boss, by now in charge at Tottenham, in the Premier League last season. The 57-year-old veteran will be hoping this season's League Cup win against Chelsea on penalties has turned the tide. He has never lost three consecutive league matches against the same manager or club before. Mourinho was keen to play down title talk after last week's impressive 2-0 win at home to Manchester City, which took them top. "People cannot expect us to come here and after one season we are fighting for the title," he told the BBC. "We are not fighting for the title, we are just fighting to win every match. But we are going to lose matches, we are going to draw matches." But, like it or not, Spurs are in the title mix and will have to get used to the pressure, which will be ramped up on Sunday. Can Arteta stop the rot? Arsenal's indifferent start to the season has left them languishing 12th in the Premier League table, with just four points from their past five matches. Mikel Arteta, whose side host Wolves on Sunday, remains optimistic despite his side's poor run and struggles in front of goal -- Arsenal have now not scored from open play in five Premier League games. "When I see the young talents we have got here and the future that we can produce for them, it's things that get me really excited," he said. "We know that we are going to go through difficult periods because you don't change issues that have been going on for years in a small amount of time." Fans have been patient so far with their manager, who arrived late last year, but will start to get edgy unless they see an upturn in results soon. City search for goals Manchester City, who host Burnley on Saturday, have not scored more than once in a Premier League match since September. It was the same old story last weekend. City had 22 shots in their 2-0 defeat against Tottenham, who mustered just four shots, with two on target. The club's record goalscorer, Sergio Aguero, had a brief runout in Wednesday's 1-0 win at Olympiakos as he makes his way back to fitness following a hamstring injury. City boss Guardiola said this week he was being cautious with the Argentine striker. "We have many, many games to play this season and we'll need him," he said. "What we want is him to recover in his best condition." But it is a difficult balancing act for the manager, whose side are already eight points behind Spurs and Liverpool. Fixtures (all times GMT) Friday Crystal Palace v Newcastle (2000)

Mourinho and Lampard brace for Premier League summit meeting

Top doctors have warned elite runners are taking a major health risk by competing in Sunday's New Delhi half-marathon in the midst of a major coronavirus outbreak and soaring air pollution.

Women's marathon world record-holder Brigid Kosgei from Kenya and Ethiopia's two-time men's winner Andamlak Belihu are among the 49 elite athletes running the 21-kilometre (13.1 mile) race, while thousands of amateurs are taking part virtually.

Organisers say the "highest level of safety-standards, with bio-secure zones" have been laid on for the race starting at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium.

But with New Delhi recording more than 500,000 virus cases, and air quality in the world's most polluted capital hovering between 'unhealthy' and 'hazardous', health experts said the athletes should think twice.

"It will be suicidal for runners to run the race this time. We have such high levels of pollution, we have the risk of coronavirus," Arvind Kumar, founder trustee of the Lung Care Foundation, told AFP.

"With the presence of this twin threat if people are still running despite knowing everything, well, I have no words to express my anguish."

"Whether you are an international elite runner or you are a small boy from a village, the damaging potential of a damaging agent remains the same," said the doctor.

<h2>- Toxic mix -</h2>

&nbsp;

Randeep Guleria, director of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), the country's top research body, told AFP that "in an ideal situation" the race should not be run.

"Because of high levels of air pollution, exercising outside in this weather sometimes can lead to aggravation of underlying lung problems," he said.

"Even if you are an elite runner the air pollution would still affect your lung."

Normally thousands of amateurs would also take part, but because of the coronavirus they have been told to run their chosen route between Wednesday and Sunday and chart their time on an app.

Delhi has been hit by a winter pollution crisis each year for the past decade when crop-stubble burning from nearby states, cold temperatures and car and industrial pollution produce a toxic mix.

This year, the Indian capital is also a major concern in the battle against the coronavirus. India is the world's second worst-hit country behind the United States, with about 9.3 million cases.

The city is considering imposing a night-time curfew because of the rising number of cases, according to media reports.

Kosgei, who is visiting India for the first time, acknowledged her concerns about travelling for the race.

"We have definitely been affected by Covid-19. I had to convince my parents and family back home to allow me to visit Delhi for the half-marathon," she said.

"The virus has affected most of the sporting events. But it is important for us to take care of ourselves."

As in other countries, nearly all sport in India has been cancelled.&nbsp;

After repeated delays, the Indian Premier League cricket went ahead in the United Arab Emirates and the Indian Super League football is being held in a bio-secure "bubble" in Goa.

Top doctors have warned elite runners are taking a major health risk by competing in Sunday's New Delhi half-marathon in the midst of a major coronavirus outbreak and soaring air pollution.

Top doctors have warned elite runners are taking a major health risk by competing in Sunday's New Delhi half-marathon in the midst of a major coronavirus outbreak and soaring air pollution. Women's marathon world record-holder Brigid Kosgei from Kenya and Ethiopia's two-time men's winner Andamlak Belihu are among the 49 elite athletes running the 21-kilometre (13.1 mile) race, while thousands of amateurs are taking part virtually. Organisers say the "highest level of safety-standards, with bio-secure zones" have been laid on for the race starting at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. But with New Delhi recording more than 500,000 virus cases, and air quality in the world's most polluted capital hovering between 'unhealthy' and 'hazardous', health experts said the athletes should think twice. "It will be suicidal for runners to run the race this time. We have such high levels of pollution, we have the risk of coronavirus," Arvind Kumar, founder trustee of the Lung Care Foundation, told AFP. "With the presence of this twin threat if people are still running despite knowing everything, well, I have no words to express my anguish." "Whether you are an international elite runner or you are a small boy from a village, the damaging potential of a damaging agent remains the same," said the doctor. - Toxic mix - Randeep Guleria, director of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), the country's top research body, told AFP that "in an ideal situation" the race should not be run. "Because of high levels of air pollution, exercising outside in this weather sometimes can lead to aggravation of underlying lung problems," he said. "Even if you are an elite runner the air pollution would still affect your lung." Normally thousands of amateurs would also take part, but because of the coronavirus they have been told to run their chosen route between Wednesday and Sunday and chart their time on an app. Delhi has been hit by a winter pollution crisis each year for the past decade when crop-stubble burning from nearby states, cold temperatures and car and industrial pollution produce a toxic mix. This year, the Indian capital is also a major concern in the battle against the coronavirus. India is the world's second worst-hit country behind the United States, with about 9.3 million cases. The city is considering imposing a night-time curfew because of the rising number of cases, according to media reports. Kosgei, who is visiting India for the first time, acknowledged her concerns about travelling for the race. "We have definitely been affected by Covid-19. I had to convince my parents and family back home to allow me to visit Delhi for the half-marathon," she said. "The virus has affected most of the sporting events. But it is important for us to take care of ourselves." As in other countries, nearly all sport in India has been cancelled. After repeated delays, the Indian Premier League cricket went ahead in the United Arab Emirates and the Indian Super League football is being held in a bio-secure "bubble" in Goa.

Doctors warn over Delhi's 'suicidal' half-marathon

South Africa are set to host England in the three-match T20I series with the series opener to be played in Cape Town on Friday. Both South Africa and England have some of the biggest T20 players in the world and a fiery contest is expected when they lock horns at the Newlands.

This will be South Africa’s first international assignment since the COVID-19 pandemic began and players, who haven’t participated in the T20 leagues, could be a bit rusty. Whereas England have enjoyed good English summer of cricket and majority of them have been actively playing cricket since the sport began&nbsp;post the lockdown.

England head into the match as favourites but South Africa are well capable of pulling off an upset if they find complacency in the English camp.

<h2>When will South Africa vs England 1st T20I begin?</h2>

The South Africa vs England 1st T20I will begin at 9:30 PM IST on November 27.&nbsp;

<h2>Where will South Africa vs England 1st T20I be played?</h2>

The South Africa vs England1st T20I match will be held at the Newlands in Cape Town.

<h2>Which channel will telecast South Africa vs England 1st T20I?</h2>

The South Africa vs England 1st T20I will have a live telecast on Star Sports in India

<h2>How to watch the live streaming of South Africa vs England 1st T20I?</h2>

The live streaming of South Africa vs England 1st T20I will be available on Disney + Hotstar streaming platform. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

South Africa are set to host England in the three-match T20I series with the series opener to be played in Cape Town on Friday. Both South Africa and England have some of the biggest T20 players in the world and a fiery contest is expected when they lock horns at the Newlands.

South Africa are set to host England in the three-match T20I series with the series opener to be played in Cape Town on Friday. Both South Africa and England have some of the biggest T20 players in the world and a fiery contest is expected when they lock horns at the Newlands. This will be South Africa’s first international assignment since the COVID-19 pandemic began and players, who haven’t participated in the T20 leagues, could be a bit rusty. Whereas England have enjoyed good English summer of cricket and majority of them have been actively playing cricket since the sport began post the lockdown. England head into the match as favourites but South Africa are well capable of pulling off an upset if they find complacency in the English camp. When will South Africa vs England 1st T20I begin? The South Africa vs England 1st T20I will begin at 9:30 PM IST on November 27. Where will South Africa vs England 1st T20I be played? The South Africa vs England1st T20I match will be held at the Newlands in Cape Town. Which channel will telecast South Africa vs England 1st T20I? The South Africa vs England 1st T20I will have a live telecast on Star Sports in India How to watch the live streaming of South Africa vs England 1st T20I? The live streaming of South Africa vs England 1st T20I will be available on Disney + Hotstar streaming platform.

South Africa vs England, 1st T20I Live Streaming: When and where to watch SA vs ENG online?

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/in-grief-filled-farewell-diego-maradona-laid-to-rest-in-bella-vista-cemetery-345901">Diego Maradona was laid to rest on the outskirts of Buenos Aires in the Bella Vista cemetery</a> after a chaotic public event on Friday. While Maradona’s demise has left a huge void in the world of football, tributes continue to pour in for the 1986 World Cup-winner and a true legend of the game.&nbsp;

In an exclusive interaction with WION’s Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo, Charge d'Affaires of the Embassy of Argentina in India, Martin Via said that Maradona was the most human among all the Gods while adding he was a fallen angel, who produced magic with the ball and gave uncountable joyous moments. &nbsp;

“If you have followed the messages coming from Argentine. Something that impacted me was it was not grief, it was joy people were crying with love, singing his name, the chants. Everyone has been crying for the last two days but everyone is happy. Everyone is thanking Maradona for what he gave us. It is a sad day,” Martin Via told WION.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/diego-maradona-unabashed-and-outspoken-most-famous-quotes-by-argentine-legend-345634">Diego Maradona, unabashed and outspoken: Most famous quotes by Argentine legend</a>

Thousands gathered outside the presidential palace in Buenos Aires to catch a glimpse of Maradona’s coffin and paid their last respect to the great man, who spent the majority of his career playing for Napoli while taking the field for gigantic clubs like Barcelona and Sevilla.&nbsp;

“Where Maradona was born was part of a poor part of Buenos Aires. Maradona taught everyone if you have courage you can achieve anything. But he was outspoken and took on the power and was never afraid to speak. He was an important figure,” Martin Via further said.

Maradona’s demise sparked mourning around the world as millions took to social media and streets to express their grief on the passing away of arguably the greatest hero Argentina has ever produced.

When asked which shade of Maradona has left the most impact in Argentina – the footballer or the man who was engulfed in controversies and addiction issues – Martin Via beautifully summed up what Maradona means to the Argentine people.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-winner-napoli-legend-drug-addict-rise-and-fall-of-diego-maradona-345411">World Cup winner, Napoli legend, drug addict: Rise and fall of Diego Maradona</a>

“People remember two parts of Diego Maradona. Maradona the footballer, Maradona other man in his personal life. He lived many many lives. I remember my grandparent, who was quite attached to football. He could not talk about Maradona because he lived over the top life. He was a very good player but his life was different. We love Maradona because he is most human among all the gods. He is a fallen angel he represents humanity the one who produced magic with the ball and that man who suffered many problems in his life,” Martin Via added.

Maradona was laid to rest on the outskirts of Buenos Aires in the Bella Vista cemetery on Friday.

Diego Maradona was laid to rest on the outskirts of Buenos Aires in the Bella Vista cemetery after a chaotic public event on Friday. While Maradona’s demise has left a huge void in the world of football, tributes continue to pour in for the 1986 World Cup-winner and a true legend of the game.

Diego Maradona was laid to rest on the outskirts of Buenos Aires in the Bella Vista cemetery after a chaotic public event on Friday. While Maradona’s demise has left a huge void in the world of football, tributes continue to pour in for the 1986 World Cup-winner and a true legend of the game. In an exclusive interaction with WION’s Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo, Charge d'Affaires of the Embassy of Argentina in India, Martin Via said that Maradona was the most human among all the Gods while adding he was a fallen angel, who produced magic with the ball and gave uncountable joyous moments. “If you have followed the messages coming from Argentine. Something that impacted me was it was not grief, it was joy people were crying with love, singing his name, the chants. Everyone has been crying for the last two days but everyone is happy. Everyone is thanking Maradona for what he gave us. It is a sad day,” Martin Via told WION. IN PICS | Diego Maradona, unabashed and outspoken: Most famous quotes by Argentine legend Thousands gathered outside the presidential palace in Buenos Aires to catch a glimpse of Maradona’s coffin and paid their last respect to the great man, who spent the majority of his career playing for Napoli while taking the field for gigantic clubs like Barcelona and Sevilla. “Where Maradona was born was part of a poor part of Buenos Aires. Maradona taught everyone if you have courage you can achieve anything. But he was outspoken and took on the power and was never afraid to speak. He was an important figure,” Martin Via further said. Maradona’s demise sparked mourning around the world as millions took to social media and streets to express their grief on the passing away of arguably the greatest hero Argentina has ever produced. When asked which shade of Maradona has left the most impact in Argentina – the footballer or the man who was engulfed in controversies and addiction issues – Martin Via beautifully summed up what Maradona means to the Argentine people. IN PICS | World Cup winner, Napoli legend, drug addict: Rise and fall of Diego Maradona “People remember two parts of Diego Maradona. Maradona the footballer, Maradona other man in his personal life. He lived many many lives. I remember my grandparent, who was quite attached to football. He could not talk about Maradona because he lived over the top life. He was a very good player but his life was different. We love Maradona because he is most human among all the gods. He is a fallen angel he represents humanity the one who produced magic with the ball and that man who suffered many problems in his life,” Martin Via added. Maradona was laid to rest on the outskirts of Buenos Aires in the Bella Vista cemetery on Friday.

Diego Maradona was most human among all the gods: Martin Via to WION

The world of football was dealt a huge blow on Wednesday with the news of Diego Maradona’s passing at the age of 60. In Spain, there was particular sadness as so many of those currently at the heart of Spanish football knew the Argentine or were touched by him from his time in LaLiga.

It was in LaLiga that Maradona took his first steps in European football, joining Barcelona for a then-world-record fee of $7.6million after starring in his home country for Argentinos Juniors and Boca Juniors. Joan Gaspart, who was the vice-president at Barcelona at the time, later revealed in interviews that the Barça directors who went to Argentina to work on the signing had to travel in a tank because the Argentine authorities feared for their safety.

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Prizing Maradona away from his loyal fans in Buenos Aires was tough, but it was worth it. Barcelona had acquired an elite player. Injury and illness meant Maradona didn’t play as many games for the&nbsp;Blaugrana&nbsp;as the club had hoped, but when he did take to the pitch of Europe’s biggest stadium it was quite a spectacle.

Even at the Bernabéu, the home of Barcelona’s eternal rivals Real Madrid, Maradona impressed. In one match, he was even applauded by the fans of the capital city side, with white handkerchiefs waved respectfully in the air after Maradona performed a graceful sidestep right next to the goal line to leave right-back Juan José flying into the post as the No.10 rolled the ball into the net.

“I remember our early training sessions with him, where the rest of the team were so amazed that they just stood and watched him,” Lobo Carrasco, one of the other Barcelona squad members at that time, recalled when looking back to that era.

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After leaving Barcelona to embark on his iconic adventure with Napoli in 1984, Maradona returned to Spain in 1992. This time he signed with Sevilla FC and reunited with Carlos Bilardo, who’d been the coach as Argentina won the 1986 World Cup in Mexico with Maradona as the star of the show.

It was only one season, but that 1992/93 campaign was one that all&nbsp;Sevillistas&nbsp;from that time still remember. In his first home game at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán, Maradona scored the only goal in a 1-0 victory over Real Zaragoza. Who else?

It wasn’t peak Maradona at Sevilla and he’d been out of the game for the year before his arrival, but his mere presence made an impact across the club. Fans would arrive at the stadium early just to watch his famous warm-ups, while the forward made an impact on the young players in that squad, players such as Diego Simeone or current Sevilla Sporting Director Monchi. “He helped me in a spectacular way at Sevilla,” Simeone remembered. Monchi, meanwhile, has often told a story that sums up Maradona’s generosity: “I was walking with Maradona one day and he saw that I had a Rolex, which I admitted to him was a fake one. Then, after training one day, he told me to wait behind and he gifted me a Cartier so that I’d never have to wear a fake watch again.”

Maradona intended to stay at Sevilla for some time, bringing several of his favourite cars to the city. But he departed at the end of the 1992/93 season, returning to Argentina.

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It wasn’t only at Barcelona and Sevilla that Maradona left an impact in Spain, though. He also impressed fans in Barcelona and Alicante, the cities where Argentina played during the 1982 World Cup. And, in 1987, Maradona even featured for Granada in a friendly match against Swedish side Malmö, doing so alongside his brothers Hugo and Lalo, who had just signed for the Andalusian club, at the old Estadio de Los Cármenes. That game remains to this day the only game in which the three brothers lined up on the same side.

Despite spending just a few years of his legendary career in Spain, Maradona made a huge impact, netting 27 goals in 62 games and winning the Copa del Rey, the Copa de la Liga and the Spanish Super Cup. His legacy will never be forgotten in Barcelona, Seville… or anywhere.

The world of football was dealt a huge blow on Wednesday with the news of Diego Maradona’s passing at the age of 60. In Spain, there was particular sadness as so many of those currently at the heart of Spanish football knew the Argentine or were touched by him from his time in LaLiga.

The world of football was dealt a huge blow on Wednesday with the news of Diego Maradona’s passing at the age of 60. In Spain, there was particular sadness as so many of those currently at the heart of Spanish football knew the Argentine or were touched by him from his time in LaLiga. It was in LaLiga that Maradona took his first steps in European football, joining Barcelona for a then-world-record fee of $7.6million after starring in his home country for Argentinos Juniors and Boca Juniors. Joan Gaspart, who was the vice-president at Barcelona at the time, later revealed in interviews that the Barça directors who went to Argentina to work on the signing had to travel in a tank because the Argentine authorities feared for their safety. ALSO READ: In grief-filled farewell, Diego Maradona laid to rest in Bella Vista cemetery Prizing Maradona away from his loyal fans in Buenos Aires was tough, but it was worth it. Barcelona had acquired an elite player. Injury and illness meant Maradona didn’t play as many games for the Blaugrana as the club had hoped, but when he did take to the pitch of Europe’s biggest stadium it was quite a spectacle. Even at the Bernabéu, the home of Barcelona’s eternal rivals Real Madrid, Maradona impressed. In one match, he was even applauded by the fans of the capital city side, with white handkerchiefs waved respectfully in the air after Maradona performed a graceful sidestep right next to the goal line to leave right-back Juan José flying into the post as the No.10 rolled the ball into the net. “I remember our early training sessions with him, where the rest of the team were so amazed that they just stood and watched him,” Lobo Carrasco, one of the other Barcelona squad members at that time, recalled when looking back to that era. IN PICS | Diego Maradona, unabashed and outspoken: Most famous quotes by Argentine legend After leaving Barcelona to embark on his iconic adventure with Napoli in 1984, Maradona returned to Spain in 1992. This time he signed with Sevilla FC and reunited with Carlos Bilardo, who’d been the coach as Argentina won the 1986 World Cup in Mexico with Maradona as the star of the show. It was only one season, but that 1992/93 campaign was one that all Sevillistas from that time still remember. In his first home game at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán, Maradona scored the only goal in a 1-0 victory over Real Zaragoza. Who else? It wasn’t peak Maradona at Sevilla and he’d been out of the game for the year before his arrival, but his mere presence made an impact across the club. Fans would arrive at the stadium early just to watch his famous warm-ups, while the forward made an impact on the young players in that squad, players such as Diego Simeone or current Sevilla Sporting Director Monchi. “He helped me in a spectacular way at Sevilla,” Simeone remembered. Monchi, meanwhile, has often told a story that sums up Maradona’s generosity: “I was walking with Maradona one day and he saw that I had a Rolex, which I admitted to him was a fake one. Then, after training one day, he told me to wait behind and he gifted me a Cartier so that I’d never have to wear a fake watch again.” Maradona intended to stay at Sevilla for some time, bringing several of his favourite cars to the city. But he departed at the end of the 1992/93 season, returning to Argentina. ALSO READ: 'It is very special place': Diego Maradona's love for Kolkata It wasn’t only at Barcelona and Sevilla that Maradona left an impact in Spain, though. He also impressed fans in Barcelona and Alicante, the cities where Argentina played during the 1982 World Cup. And, in 1987, Maradona even featured for Granada in a friendly match against Swedish side Malmö, doing so alongside his brothers Hugo and Lalo, who had just signed for the Andalusian club, at the old Estadio de Los Cármenes. That game remains to this day the only game in which the three brothers lined up on the same side. Despite spending just a few years of his legendary career in Spain, Maradona made a huge impact, netting 27 goals in 62 games and winning the Copa del Rey, the Copa de la Liga and the Spanish Super Cup. His legacy will never be forgotten in Barcelona, Seville… or anywhere.

La Liga mourns Diego Maradona's death, hold a minute’s silence before all matches this weekend

A massive crowd gave a grief-filled goodbye to Argentina’s favourite son Diego Maradona on Friday before the football legend was buried on the outskirts of Buenos Aires after a chaotic public event. The 1986 World Cup winner was laid to rest after a ceremony attended by family and close friends in the Bella Vista cemetery. Maradona breathed his last on Wednesday after suffering a heart attack. He was recovering from recent brain surgery in his house in Tigre, Argentina.

Maradona’s demise sparked mourning around the world as millions took to social media platforms to pay heartfelt tribute to one of the greatest football players of all time.&nbsp;

"I thought Diego was immortal, I thought he would never die on us. I feel a terrible sadness for a person who made us so, so happy," said 63-year-old bus driver Antonio Avila outside the cemetery.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/diego-maradona-unabashed-and-outspoken-most-famous-quotes-by-argentine-legend-345634">Diego Maradona, unabashed and outspoken: Most famous quotes by Argentine legend</a>

The peaceful farewell ceremony was contrasted by the raucous scenes of his send-off in the Argentine capital that resembled his tumultuous life.

Police fired tear gas and rubber bullets to stone-throwing fans that briefly threatened to mar the day of mourning.

In Naples, where Maradona is treated like a God among men after leading Napoli to two Serie A titles, fans held an all-day wake and players took to the pitch wearing his number 10 shirt.

Thousands of people had queued in Buenos Aires to go catch a glimpse of Maradona’s coffin, draped in the Argentine flag at the presidential palace.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-winner-napoli-legend-drug-addict-rise-and-fall-of-diego-maradona-345411">World Cup winner, Napoli legend, drug addict: Rise and fall of Diego Maradona</a>

The hearse bearing Maradona’s coffin rolled through the gates of the presidency building into the streets of Buenos Aires.&nbsp;

As his playing days ended, his lifestyle began to take a toll. He was hospitalised three times in the last 20 years for serious health issues.

(From AFP inputs)

A massive crowd gave a grief-filled goodbye to Argentina’s favourite son Diego Maradona on Friday before the football legend was buried on the outskirts of Buenos Aires after a chaotic public event.

A massive crowd gave a grief-filled goodbye to Argentina’s favourite son Diego Maradona on Friday before the football legend was buried on the outskirts of Buenos Aires after a chaotic public event. The 1986 World Cup winner was laid to rest after a ceremony attended by family and close friends in the Bella Vista cemetery. Maradona breathed his last on Wednesday after suffering a heart attack. He was recovering from recent brain surgery in his house in Tigre, Argentina. Maradona’s demise sparked mourning around the world as millions took to social media platforms to pay heartfelt tribute to one of the greatest football players of all time. "I thought Diego was immortal, I thought he would never die on us. I feel a terrible sadness for a person who made us so, so happy," said 63-year-old bus driver Antonio Avila outside the cemetery. ALSO READ: Diego Maradona, unabashed and outspoken: Most famous quotes by Argentine legend The peaceful farewell ceremony was contrasted by the raucous scenes of his send-off in the Argentine capital that resembled his tumultuous life. Police fired tear gas and rubber bullets to stone-throwing fans that briefly threatened to mar the day of mourning. In Naples, where Maradona is treated like a God among men after leading Napoli to two Serie A titles, fans held an all-day wake and players took to the pitch wearing his number 10 shirt. Thousands of people had queued in Buenos Aires to go catch a glimpse of Maradona’s coffin, draped in the Argentine flag at the presidential palace. ALSO READ: World Cup winner, Napoli legend, drug addict: Rise and fall of Diego Maradona The hearse bearing Maradona’s coffin rolled through the gates of the presidency building into the streets of Buenos Aires. As his playing days ended, his lifestyle began to take a toll. He was hospitalised three times in the last 20 years for serious health issues. (From AFP inputs)

In grief-filled farewell, Diego Maradona laid to rest in Bella Vista cemetery

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