Ex-Harambee Stars Boss Engin Firat Dies After Heart Attack
Sports Updated: 09 March 2026 09:32 EAT
Former Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat Dies
Former Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat has died after suffering a heart attack at Istanbul Airport, his club Nejmeh SC confirmed. The Turkish tactician collapsed while transiting through the airport, sending shockwaves across the football community in Kenya and beyond.
Officials from the Beirut-based club said Firat suffered a sudden cardiac arrest while travelling back to Turkey. Emergency responders at the airport reportedly attempted to stabilise him, but he was later pronounced dead.
Firat had recently taken charge of Nejmeh after being appointed head coach in early 2026. The club said his brief time with the team had already shown promise as he worked to strengthen the squad ahead of domestic competitions.
At the Lebanese side, Firat reunited with several Kenyan internationals including Anthony Akumu and Masud Juma, players he had previously coached during his stint with the national team. His familiarity with Kenyan talent had helped build a strong connection between him and the squad.
The coach previously served as head of Kenya national football team from 2021 until late 2024. During that period he oversaw a rebuilding phase for the team and worked to integrate a new generation of players into the national setup.
Over the course of his tenure with Harambee Stars, Firat managed more than 20 matches, recording several notable victories and draws against regional rivals. His leadership came during a challenging period for Kenyan football marked by administrative and financial difficulties.
Despite his efforts, Kenya failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which brought his time with the national side to an end. His exit was followed by public claims of delayed salary payments, highlighting ongoing financial challenges in the sport.
Beyond Kenya, Firat built a long international coaching career spanning Europe, Asia and Africa. He worked with several clubs and national teams and was widely regarded for his tactical discipline and experience across different football cultures.
News of his sudden death has sparked tributes from players, clubs and football officials in Kenya, Lebanon and Turkey. Many have remembered him as a passionate coach who remained deeply committed to developing football talent wherever he worked.
Tags: Engin Firat Fkf FKF FKF Premier League Harambee Stars Signs Media Kenya Limited Signsmedia Signstv Signstvkenya Edit Editor's Pick
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FELIX MAKONA
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