Firat, who until his death was the first team coach for Nejmeh Football Club in Lebanon, passed away on Monday, March 9, following a heart attack, as confirmed by his club.
At the time of his death, he was at Istanbul airport on his way to Adna, a few hours after leaving for his country.
Mourning the coach, his club described him as a committed and high-ethics professional who left a good impression on the ranks of the team among members of the club.
“With great sadness and sorrow, Star Athletic Club mourns first team coach captain Engin Firat, who passed away following a sudden heart attack while at Istanbul airport on his way to Adna a few hours after leaving Beirut for his country,” said a statement from Nejmah Club.
Firat was appointed head coach of Nejmeh SC on February 8, 2026, where he reunited with the Kenyan trio consisting of Anthony “Teddy” Akumu, Masud Juma, and Austin Odhiambo, whom he previously managed in Kenya as the national team’s coach.
Since taking over the Lebanese club, Virat has maintained an unbeaten record in his debut matches and successfully guided the team into a domestic cup final.
He served as the head coach of Kenya’s men’s national team, Harambee Stars, for three years from 2021 to 2024. However, his tenure ended in December 2024 after Kenya failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The coach oversaw a total of 24 matches, recording 7 wins, 8 draws, and 9 losses, including a 5-0 loss to Mali.
His exit, however, was marked by a legal dispute regarding salary delay, citing over 11 months of non-payment.
During his time in Kenya, Firat had disputes with then Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who on many occasions threatened to sack him if Kenya were not to qualify for the AFCON, and even cease funding the Football Kenya Federation (FKF).
Mourning Firat, FKF president Hussein Mohammed said Firat’s contribution to Kenyan football will be greatly remembered, sending his sympathies to the family and friends.
“Our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of former Harambee Stars Coach Engin Firat. His contribution to Kenyan football will be fondly remembered, may his soul find eternal peace,” Hussein stated.
Before his time in Kenya, Firat had also managed the Moldova national team and held assistant coaching roles at Fernabache, Eintracht Frankfurt, and Samsunspor.
