Why Engin Firat’s Ksh75 million debt could still haunt FKF even after his demise

The passing of former Harambee Stars head coach Engin Firat does not automatically absolve the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) of the Ksh75 million he was seeking in salary arrears and breach of contract claims.

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Fırat resigned from the national team in December 2024 after then-Sports CS Kipchumba Murkomen indicated he had to leave, citing a poor run under the Turkish-Cypriot tactician.

Shortly after stepping down, Firat escalated the matter to FIFA, giving the federation an ultimatum to settle his dues or face legal consequences.

Tragically, on Monday, Firat collapsed and died at an airport in Turkey while returning from Lebanon, where he had been coaching Nejmeh SC. He had temporarily paused his stint in Lebanon due to security concerns in the Middle East. He was laid to rest in Turkey on Tuesday.

Many assumed his demise might end the legal dispute, but international sports lawyer Sarah Ochwada says otherwise.

“A case does not automatically lapse upon the death of a claimant,” Ochwada told Pulse Sports. “While FIFA does not have specific provisions addressing the death of a claimant, procedural rules allow an authorised representative to step in on behalf of the deceased.”

Legal experts note that unpaid salaries and contractual compensation are considered patrimonial rights, assets belonging to the deceased. This means the case can be continued by Fırat’s estate, with legal heirs, beneficiaries, or appointed representatives taking up the claim.

The FIFA Dispute Resolution Chamber (now the FIFA Tribunal) may temporarily pause proceedings to allow the heirs to provide documentation proving their legal standing.

Once recognised, the case continues on its merits, with the FKF remaining liable for unpaid salaries up to the date of Fırat’s death, as well as any additional compensation for breach of contract.

Any award granted by FIFA would be paid to the legal heirs, ensuring the late coach’s claims are fully addressed despite his passing.

Firat took over the reins at Harambee Stars in September 2021 and served just over three years. Highlights of his tenure included a 2–1 victory over Qatar and impressive draws against the Ivory Coast and Russia.

However, his period in charge also saw setbacks, including a 5–0 defeat to Mali in the 2022 FIFA 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 Harambee Stars, Firat frequently highlighted structural challenges as key obstacles to success. He was particularly critical of Kenya’s inability to host international matches due to the lack of a FIFA-accredited stadium.

Consequently, several World Cup and AFCON qualifiers had to be staged abroad, with Malawi, Uganda, and South Africa serving as temporary home venues.

Fırat is best remembered for fiercely defending his squad selections and results, never shying away from standing by his decisions.