Former Harambee Stars Head Coach Engin Firat has passed away following a sudden heart attack.

The news of his passing was announced by Nejmeh SC, the Lebanon based club he has been managing since February 2026.

According to a statement issued by the club on Monday morning, the 55-year-old collapsed at Istanbul Airport while travelling from Beirut to Adana, Turkey, shortly after leaving Lebanon.

“With great sadness and sorrow, Star Athletic Club mourns first team coach Captain 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,” the club announced.

Nejmeh praised Firat’s professional commitment and high ethics, stating that he left a good impression on the ranks of the team and among the members of the star club family.

The club, which is home to Kenyan trio, Austine Odhiambo, Masoud Juma and Anthony Akumu, extended their condolences to the Turkish tactician’s 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,” it added.

Engin Firat took charge of Kenyan National team, Harambee Stars in November 2021, Under the leadership of Nick Mwendwa, during his tenure as President of Football Kenya Federation (FKF).

Firat managed Harambee Stars until December 2024, before moving to club football in Lebanon.

The gaffer also had a stint with the Moldova national football team between October 2019 and January 2020, and previously took charge of Saipa F.C. in Iran from July 2013 to May 2014.