New York Yankees co-owner Hank Steinbrenner dies at 63

George Michael Steinbrenner IV with his father Hank Steinbrenner after his team won the the Indy Lights race on April 23, 2017, at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham, Alabama. Getty Images

New York Yankees part owner and co-chairman Hank Steinbrenner listens as shortstop Derek Jeter speaks during a news conference, in Tampa, Florida in 2014. AFP

New York Yankees co-owner Hank Steinbrenner is shown during the Yankees spring training baseball game against the Minnesota Twins at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, Florida. AP Photo

Co-owner Hank Steinbrenner, right, of the New York Yankees talks with team president Randy Levine during a Grapefruit League Spring Training Game against the Atlanta Braves at George M. Steinbrenner Field on March 5, 2013 in Tampa. AFP

Hank Steinbrenner died after a long illness at his home in Florida on Tuesday, April 14, 2020. AFP

New York Yankees co-owner Hank Steinbrenner died Tuesday at his home in Clearwater, Florida, due to "a longstanding health issue," the team announced. He was 63.

Steinbrenner's death was reportedly unrelated to Covid-19.

Steinbrenner, the oldest son of George Steinbrenner, and his brother, Hal, took over day-to-day operations of the Yankees in 2007, when their father stepped down. Hank Steinbrenner initially took a forward-facing role before stepping back, as Hal Steinbrenner, 50, handled more of the daily operations.

"Hank was a genuine and gentle spirit who treasured the deep relationships he formed with those closest to him," the Steinbrenner family said in a statement. "He was introduced to the Yankees organisation at a very young age, and his love for sports and competition continued to burn brightly throughout his life. Hank could be direct and outspoken, but in the very same conversation show great tenderness and light-heartedness.

"More than anything, he set an example for all of us in how comfortably he lived enjoying his personal passions and pursuits. We are profoundly saddened to have lost him and will carry his memory with us always."

In recent years, Hank Steinbrenner had primarily worked at the team's offices in Florida.

The brothers have two younger sisters, Jessica and Jennifer.