Olympics: Samaranch taken to hospital after collapse

Former International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Juan Antonio Samaranch was taken to hospital on Wednesday after collapsing at a promotional event in the Spanish capital.

Medical staff said the 87-year-old had responded well to treatment at the Clinico hospital and would be able to leave hospital soon.

"He suffered a rise in his arterial blood pressure and then fainted which is a frequent occurrence when this happens," Doctor Pedro Tarquis told Spanish Radio 5.

"He is conscious, stable and has responded well to the treatment. If he continues to respond as he has done up to now he will be able to go home in a few hours."

Witnesses reported that Samaranch was rushed to hospital after fainting shortly before he was due to attend the presentation of a fund-raising event organised by Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas and tennis player Rafael Nadal.

Samaranch was head of the IOC between 1980 and 2001 and is now an honorary life president of the organisation.

- REUTERS