Former Harambee Stars head coach Engin Fırat has died after suffering a heart attack at the age of 56.
According to a statement from Lebanese side Nejmeh SC — where Firat last worked — the Turk passed away at Istanbul Airport, on his way to his hometown in Adana, from Beirut.
The club in a statement further said: “With great sadness and sorrow, Nejmeh Sports Club mourns the coach of the first team, Captain Engin Fırat, who passed away following a sudden heart attack while at Istanbul Airport on his way to the city of Adana, a few hours after leaving Beirut to return to his country,” the statement read.
The club eulogised Firat for his work ethic and indelible mark he has left on the club.
“During the period he spent with the club, the deceased was known for his professional commitment, high ethics, and he left a good mark among the players and members of the Nejmeh SC family,” the club said.
They added: “The club’s management, technical and administrative staff, players, and fans offer their deepest condolences and sincere sympathy to his honorable family and loved ones, asking God to cover him with His vast mercy and to inspire them with patience and solace.”
Firat joined Nejmeh in February this year, and was reunited with his players from Harambee Stars days, including Masoud Juma, Austine Odhiambo and Teddy Akumu.
Firat was Harambee Stars boss between 2021 and 2024 during which he won seven matches, drew seven and lost nine including a 5-0 loss to Mali. However, his tenure ended in December 2024 after Kenya failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
His exit, however, was marked by a legal dispute regarding salary delay, citing over 11 months of non-payment.
Beyond his time in Kenya, Fırat’s career spanned several countries, including stints with the Moldova national team and various high-profile clubs in the Iranian Pro League and the Turkish Süper Lig.
