Former UEFA president Lennart Johansson, dubbed the ‘father of the Champions League’, has died at the age of 89.
The Swedish Football Association said Johansson passed away after a short illness.
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Former UEFA president Lennart Johansson has died at the age of 89
UEFA have announced a minute’s silence will be observed ahead of this weekend’s Nations League finals and the upcoming European qualifiers and Under-21 matches.
Johansson headed Europe’s top governing body from 1990 to 2007 and was named Honorary UEFA President at the UEFA Congress in Dusseldorf in January 2007.
He was also a key force behind the founding of the Champions League in 1992, following the European Cup’s re-brand and, with him at the helm, the tournament became the world’s most prestigious club competition.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino led the tributes to the Swede who, to date, is the longest serving president of UEFA.
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“I am heartbroken by the news of the passing away of Lennart Johansson,” Infantino said.
“He was a friend and an invaluable source of wisdom and inspiration.
“I will be forever grateful for having had him as the president of UEFA when I joined the organisation in 2000. Since then, Lennart has always been a role model of professionalism and, more importantly, of humanity.”
Portugal face Switzerland tonight while England take on the Netherlands tomorrow ahead of Sunday’s Nations League final.
A moment for remembrance will take place in Johansson’s honour ahead of each fixture and will also do so in the international fixtures happening across Europe in the coming days.
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A minutes silence was held for former UEFA President Lennart Johansson during the 69th FIFA Congress
UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said: “UEFA and European football are deeply saddened by the passing of Lennart Johansson, and I would like to express my sincerest condolences to his family and loved ones, as well as to the Swedish Football Association, on their loss.
“He was a devoted lover and servant of football, who put his passion at the heart of his life.
“He will always be remembered as a visionary leader, and as the architect of the UEFA Champions League, and world football will be always be grateful to him for all he has achieved for the beautiful game.”
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