Karl Sekanina
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
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The former Austrian Football Association president Karl Sekanina passed away in Amstetten on Monday, the day of his 82nd birthday.
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The former Austrian Football Association (ÖFB) president Karl Sekanina passed away in Amstetten on Monday, the day of his 82nd birthday.
Honorary president
The politician was president of the ÖFB from 1976 to 1982, taking over the role from Heinz Gerö. Under his reign, the national team qualified for the 1978 and 1982 FIFA World Cups in Argentina and Spain. His successor in 1982 was Herbert Raggautz and Sekanina was named honorary president of the ÖFB in 1999.
Place in history
"In Karl Sekanina, Austrian sport has lost a personality who will forever have a place in Austria's football history due to his commitment and his successes," said current ÖFB president Friedrich Stickler. "Our sympathy is first of all with the family and next of kin of Karl Sekanina."
Mark of respect
The Austrian national team will wear black armbands and observe a minute's silence before the upcoming international against Turkey on 19 November in Vienna as a mark of respect. UEFA would like to join the ÖFB in extending its deepest sympathy to Mr Sekanina's family.