Date:10/04/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/04/10/stories/2008041053922000.htm

Sport - Sports : General

Maradona invited to be torch-bearer

BUENOS AIRES: The organisers of the Buenos Aires Olympic torch relay have invited soccer hero Diego Maradona to be one of 80 runners on a route across the Argentine capital.

The organisers say Maradona indicated his interest to take part, but is travelling outside the country. He, however, hopes to return from Mexico in time for Friday’s relay, where he has been listed as the starting torch-bearer.

The organisers say they plan a 14-km route through Buenos Aires. About 2,700 police will provide security after protests elsewhere. — AP