Maradona Sues Two Chinese Internet Companies Over Use Of His Image

Former Al Wasl club Manager Diego Maradona "attended a Beijing court hearing on Friday," which was considering his $3.2M image rights claim against two Chinese Internet companies, according to the AFP. Xinhua news agency reported Maradona has accused the companies of "using his name and picture for an online gaming site without asking his permission." Maradona's agent in China, Tang Qinghui, said that she could not comment on the case. However, sources told Xinhua that the 51-year-old is seeking 20M yuan ($3.2M) in compensation. Tang said that Maradona is in China to "discuss with football officials how the game can be developed" in the country at the grassroots level. There has also been speculation in the Chinese media that he could potentially "become coach of the national football team" (GULF NEWS, 8/17).