07.04.2026 21:20
In recent days, Romanian coach Mircea Lucescu, who suffered a heart attack, passed away at the age of 80.
One of the legendary names of world football, Romanian coach Mircea Lucescu, who left an indelible mark in Turkey by winning championships with both Beşiktaş and Galatasaray, passed away at the age of 80.
LUCECU PASSED AWAY
After feeling unwell during training, Mircea Lucescu, who was to be discharged from Bucharest University Hospital on Friday, April 3, suffered a heart attack and was taken to intensive care. He passed away as he did not respond to the treatment.
IT WAS ANNOUNCED THAT HE HAD SUFFERED MULTIPLE STROKES
A statement was made regarding Mircea Lucescu's last health condition from Bucharest University Hospital, indicating that the experienced coach had suffered multiple strokes and that many of his blood vessels were blocked. The hospital's statement included, "Mircea Lucescu underwent a comprehensive tomography scan today. The doctors treating the patient have examined the situation in detail and informed the family. The tomography examination revealed numerous signs of ischemic cerebral stroke and pulmonary embolism; Lucescu will remain under the close supervision of the multidisciplinary team at the hospital."
HIS LAST MATCH WAS AGAINST TURKEY
Recently removed from the position of Romania's head coach, Lucescu last competed against Turkey in the semi-final match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup European Qualifiers.
WHO IS MIRCEA LUCESCU?
Known by the nickname "Il Luce," Lucescu was recognized not only for his tactical genius on the field but also for his gentlemanly personality and the young talents he brought to the football world. The legendary coach, who served in many important clubs in Europe throughout his career, etched his name in golden letters in Turkish football history. Lucescu won the Romanian League championship seven times with Dinamo Bucharest during his playing career. In his coaching career, he won the UEFA Super Cup with Galatasaray and the UEFA Cup with Shakhtar Donetsk. He won championships in Turkey with different teams for two consecutive years. He won the Ukrainian League championship a total of nine times, including eight with Shakhtar Donetsk and once with Dinamo Kyiv.
NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS FROM HIS CAREER
Turkey Period: He won the UEFA Super Cup with Galatasaray. By leading both Galatasaray and Beşiktaş to Super League championships, he became one of the rare names to achieve this success with two different eternal rivals.
Shakhtar Donetsk: During his years at the Ukrainian club, he brought the club among Europe's giants and lifted the UEFA Cup.
National Teams: By serving in the Romania and Turkey national football teams, he elevated his vision to an international level.