New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner dies

GEORGE Steinbrenner, who rebuilt the New York Yankees into a sports empire with a mix of bluster and big bucks that polarised fans across America, has died.

He had celebrated his 80th birthday on July 4.

Steinbrenner had a heart attack and died in a hospital in Tampa, Florida, a person close to the owner told The Associated Press.

For more than 30 years, Steinbrenner lived up to his billing as "the Boss", a nickname he earned and clearly enjoyed as he ruled with an iron fist.

He was known for feuds, clashing with Yankees great Yogi Berra, and firing manager Billy Martin twice.

But as his health declined, Steinbrenner let sons Hal and Hank run more of the family business.

Steinbrenner was in fragile health for years, resulting in fewer public appearances and pronouncements.

Yet dressed in his trademark navy blue blazer and white turtleneck, he was the model of success.

The Yankees won seven World Series titles, including last year's, after his reign began in 1973.

His death was the second in three days to rock the Yankees. Bob Sheppard, the team's revered public address announcer from 1951-2007, died on Sunday aged 99.

Source: http://www.couriermail.com.au