Engin Firat, the Turkish coach who was in charge of Kenya’s national football team Harambee Stars between 2021 and 2024, is dead.
On Monday, Lebanese top-flight side Nejmeh Sporting Club where Firat served as head coach confirmed that he died following a “sudden heart attack” while at Istanbul Airport in Turkey.
Firat was returning home from Lebanon due to the US-Israeli war with Iran that has engulfed the Middle East. Firat was on his way to Adna in Turkey when he died.
“With great sadness and sorrow, Star Athletic Club mourns first team coach Engin Virat, 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,” Firat’s club Nejmeh SC said in a statement on Monday.
Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat gives instructions to his players during a training session at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani Annex on November 13, 2023.
Photo credit: File | Nation Media Group
“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 on the ranks of the team and among the members of the star club family.
“The management of the club, the technical and administrative staff, the players, and the audience of Al-Najma Club extend their deepest condolences and sincere condolences to his generous family and loved ones, asking God to shower him with His mercy and inspire them with patience and solace. Rest in peace, coach Engin Firat. Our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones,” the club said.
Breach of contract claims
Firat, 55, served as Harambee Stars coach from September 19, 2021 to December 2024.
Nick Mwendwa, then chairman of Football Kenya Federation (FKF), appointed Firat Harambee Stars coach on September 19, 2021, initially on a bizarre two-month contract.
Harambee Stars coach Engin Firat take charge of the team's training session at Police Sacco Stadium in Nairobi on September 1, 2024.
Photo credit: Chris Omollo | Nation Media Group
Local football fans opposed Firat’s appointment due to his poor record with the Moldovan football team, but FKF stuck with him, and inexplicably extended his contract in early 2023 for three years till 2026.
However, Firat opted out of his contract prematurely in December 2025, and sent a notice of termination of his contract to the new leadership of the federation, citing salary arrears.
Last year, the Turk reported FKF to Fifa’s Disputes Resolution Chambers seeking to be paid about Sh75 million in unpaid salaries and breach of contract claims. The case still remains active.
During his tenure, Firat led Kenya in 23 matches, winning seven, losing nine and drawing another seven. He joined Nejmeh last month.
