Turkish football manager Engin Fırat, who previously led Kenya’s national team Harambee Stars, died following a sudden heart attack.
The 55-year-old collapsed at Istanbul Airport while traveling from Beirut to Adana, Turkey, shortly after leaving Lebanon.
Fırat had recently taken charge of Lebanese Premier League side Nejmeh SC on February 9, 2026, where he worked with Kenyan players Austin Odhiambo, Anthony Akumu, and Masoud Juma.
In a heartfelt statement, Nejmeh SC confirmed his death and praised his professionalism and positive impact during his short tenure.
“To Allah we belong, and to Him we shall return. With great sadness and sorrow, Star Athletic Club mourns first team coach Captain Engin Fırat, who passed away following a sudden heart attack at Istanbul Airport while on his way to Adana, a few hours after leaving Beirut for his country.”
The club added: “During the time he spent with the club, the deceased was known for his professional commitment and high ethics, and he left a good impression among the team and the members of the Nejmeh family.”
Nejmeh’s management, staff, players, and supporters extended their deepest condolences to Fırat’s family and loved ones.
Fırat’s coaching career spanned multiple continents, including stints with national teams like Kenya (where he managed Harambee Stars until late 2024), Moldova, and Iran, before moving to club football in Lebanon. His brief time at Nejmeh included guiding the team to key domestic progress, earning respect for his dedication.
Tributes have poured in from the Kenyan football community and beyond, highlighting his contributions to the game. Rest in peace, Coach Engin Fırat.
Condolences to his family, friends, Nejmeh SC, and all who knew him
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