Former Harambee Stars coach dies

According to a statement released by Nejmeh, the Turkish tactician collapsed at Istanbul Airport while returning to Turkey from Beirut.

“To Allah we belong, and to Him we shall return. With great sadness and sorrow, Star Athletic Club mourns first team coach Captain Engin Firat, who passed away following a sudden heart attack at Istanbul Airport while on his way to Adana, a few hours after leaving Beirut for his country,” the club said in a statement.

The club further praised Firat’s professionalism and the impact he made during his short time in charge.

“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 among the team and the members of the Nejmeh family,” the statement added.

Nejmeh also extended their condolences to Firat’s family and loved ones.

“The management of the club, the technical and administrative staff, the players, and supporters of Nejmeh Club extend their deepest condolences and sincere sympathies to his family and loved ones.”

Firat took over as head coach of Harambee Stars in 2021 on a short-term interim contract that was later formalized. He remained in charge until December 2024 when his tenure ended following criticism from then Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.

Murkomen had directed Football Kenya Federation to act accordingly, a move that appeared to trigger Firat’s decision to step down.

“I have terminated my contract after the CS (Murkomen) talked so much about me, but let Football Kenya Federation make the announcement,” Firat said at the time.

During his stint in charge, Firat oversaw 23 matches, recording seven wins, seven draws, and nine defeats.

Among the highlights of his tenure were a 2–1 victory over Qatar and impressive draws against Ivory Coast and Russia. However, there were also significant setbacks, including a heavy 5–0 defeat to Mali in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers, a 4–0 loss to Cameroon in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, and a shock 1–0 friendly defeat to South Sudan at Kasarani Stadium.

Throughout his time with the national team, Firat frequently pointed to structural challenges as major obstacles to success. He was particularly critical of Kenya’s inability to host international matches due to the lack of a FIFA-accredited stadium.

As a result, Kenya was forced to stage several of its World Cup and AFCON qualifiers in foreign countries, with Malawi, Uganda, and South Africa serving as temporary home venues for Harambee Stars.

Mozzart Sport extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Coach Engin Firat during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace.