The New York Giants have announced that co-owner Ann Mara died earlier today after a two-week spell in hospital following a fall at home.

The 85-year-old, who became the co-owner following the death of her husband Wellington in 2005, hit her head after slipping on ice at her New York home last month.

League commissioner Roger Goodell said: "Mrs Mara was a tower of strength, dignity and inspiration for her family and all of us in the NFL.

"Her family and the Giants organisation have always reflected Mrs Mara's competitive spirit, integrity, and wonderful sense of humor. Our thoughts and prayers are with [her son and team president] John Mara and the entire Mara family."

A statement from the team said that Mara passed away surrounded by all 11 of her children.