By Gran Chico | March 9, 2026
The football world is mourning the sudden death of former Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat, who passed away at the age of 55 after suffering a heart attack.
According to reports confirmed by Nejmeh Sporting Club, Firat collapsed on Monday at Istanbul Airport while travelling. Despite receiving immediate medical attention, he could not be revived.
The Turkish tactician, who would have turned 56 in June, had recently joined Nejmeh SC on February 9, 2026. At the club, he was coaching several Kenyan international players including Austin Odhiambo, Anthony Akumu, and Masoud Juma.
Reports indicate that Firat was travelling from Lebanon to Adana when the fatal incident occurred.
A Global Coaching Career
Born in Istanbul in 1970, Firat built a coaching career that spanned multiple continents, working with clubs and national teams across Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Earlier in his career, he served as an assistant coach at Turkish giants Fenerbahçe before taking up managerial roles with the national teams of Moldova national football team and Iran national football team.
Firat took charge of Harambee Stars in September 2021 on an interim basis before later being handed a full contract.
His tenure with Kenya’s national team lasted until December 2024, a period marked by administrative challenges and intense scrutiny of the team’s performance.
Mixed Results but Lasting Influence
During his time in charge, Firat guided the team through a difficult era in Kenyan football that included governance disputes and changes within the Football Kenya Federation.
His tenure also drew criticism from some quarters, including former Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, before he eventually departed following the election of Hussein Mohammed as FKF president.
Despite the controversies, Firat was widely respected for his dedication to football and his commitment to developing young talent.
He was known for emphasizing tactical discipline and youth development, leaving a lasting impact on several Kenyan players who continue to represent the country internationally.
