A British sports journalist has revealed an unconventional interaction with football legend Diego Maradona during the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. Barney Ronay, chief sports writer, recounted the moment he chose to 'smell' Maradona while the Argentine icon was attending his nation's first group stage match of the competition.
The peculiar encounter forms part of Ronay's ongoing World Cup video diary, offering a unique, behind-the-scenes perspective on the major international tournament. Maradona, a figure of immense global recognition and adoration, particularly within football circles, was a prominent presence at the tournament, often seen in the stands supporting his national team.
Such an unconventional approach to meeting a sporting legend highlights the often-unpredictable nature of major international events and the personal experiences journalists gather whilst covering them. Maradona's presence at the 2018 World Cup was notable for his animated reactions and passionate support for Argentina, drawing significant media attention.
The anecdote provides a human, if somewhat eccentric, element to the typical sports reporting from such a high-profile event. It offers a glimpse into the individual experiences of those covering the tournament, moving beyond match reports and tactical analyses to personal interactions with some of the game's greatest figures.
Fans interested in following more of Ronay's distinctive World Cup adventures and video diary entries are encouraged to follow @guardian_sport on the social media platform TikTok, where further instalments are being shared.