Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Legendary Football Coach Leo Beenhakker Dies at 82

The Dutchman, celebrated for his transformative impact at Real Madrid, Ajax, and on international football, leaves behind a 50-year legacy of innovation and success.

Football Soccer - UEFA Cup Semi Final - Second Leg - Torino vs Real Madrid - Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, Madrid, Spain - April 15, 1992  Real Madrid coach Leo Beenhakker REUTERS/Action Images/File Photo
Football - Poland v Northern Ireland - 2010 World Cup Qualifying European Zone - Group Three - Slaski Stadium, Chorzow, Poland - 5/9/09 
Leo Beenhakker - Poland Head Coach. Mandatory Credit: Action Images/Jason Cairnduff/File Photo
Image
Leo Beenhakker led Trinidad and Tobago to the 2006 World Cup

Overview

  • Leo Beenhakker's death at age 82 was confirmed on April 10, 2025, with tributes from Real Madrid and Ajax highlighting his iconic status in football.
  • Beenhakker managed Real Madrid from 1986 to 1989, winning three consecutive La Liga titles and six trophies in total during his tenure.
  • Ajax recognized Beenhakker as one of the most successful Dutch coaches, celebrating his Eredivisie title wins in 1980 and 1990 and his role as a technical director later in his career.
  • His international coaching career included leading Trinidad and Tobago to their first-ever World Cup in 2006 and managing national teams such as the Netherlands, Poland, and Saudi Arabia.
  • Spanning over five decades, Beenhakker's career was marked by tactical innovation, mentorship, and a profound influence on football across Europe and beyond.