At a reception at the Moncloa Palace in Madrid yesterday for Spain's victorious Davis Cup team, José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero promised to create a Sports ministry when he next reshuffles his cabinet, and to reform the Sports Law.

The idea was proposed by team captain, Emilio Sánchez Vicario, in what was his farewell appearance after announcing his decision to stand down from the role.

In response, Mr Zapatero said: "Emilio's thrown down the gauntlet, and I'm picking it up. And I say yes. After the next reshuffle, there will be a Sports Minstry. We've been considering it for a while, but the time's come for a firm commitment."

Referring to the controversy concerning Spain's attendance at the recent G-20 summit in Washington, Mr Zapatero joked, "Thanks to your efforts, we are easily among the G-8 of sport. This is a very good time for us and we're now one of the best sporting nations in the world."