ROME. Nov 10: The funeral service for IAAF president Primo Nebiolo. which took place here on Tuesday, was a simple ceremony attended by leading personalities from the world of sport, reports AFP.

A commemorative ceremony took place in Rome's Marmi Stadium Tuesday afternoon followed by an hour-long religious service in the Sacro Cuore Immacolata di Maria Church, in Piazza Euclide.

During the ceremony International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Juan Antonio Samaranch paid tribute to Nebiolo. who died of a heart attack on Saturday night at the age of 76 years.

Nebiolo's widow Giovanna was seated in the front pew beside Samaranch and former Italian premier. Giulio Andreotti. a long time personal friend of the deceased.

CONI president, Gianni Petrucci, also attended along with the Italian Athletics Federation president Gianni Gola. and the 23 members of the IAAF executive committee, headed by Lamine Diack. IAAF senior vice-president, appointed interim president Sunday of the athletic s governing body.

Former Olympic 200m champion Pietro Mennea paid tribute to his former friend and mentor during his homily.

While Sabatino Aracu. president of the Artistic Skaking Federation said: "He was the first man who knew how to join management and sport."

Young Italian athletes', who carried out a vigil as Nebiolo lay in state at the Sala d'Onore" (Hall of Fame) of the Italian National Olympic Committee on Monday night, formed a guard of honour following Tuesday's funeral ceremony.

Nebiolo will be buried Wednesday in his native Turin.