Samaranch fascist salute photo sparks debate on former IOC president's position

An image published in Spanish magazine Sapiens, and carried in other publications including the Times of London, shows former IOC president Juan Antonio Samaranch making a fascist salute in honour of the former Spanish dictator, General Franco.

The photograph, taken in 1974, shows Mr Samaranch at a celebration to mark the 38th anniversary of the coup staged by General Franco in 1936 and which led to his victory in the Spanish Civil War three years later.

Its publication has sparked renewed debate over the position of Mr Samaranch as the honorary life president of the IOC, with critics saying that he should resign his post as his political stance is incompatible with the democratic ideals of sport.

Samaranch's association with the Franco regime is well known, having served as Sports Secretary in the later years of the Franco regime.

SOURCE: Times Online