The world of football is in mourning following the death of Welsh legend Terry Yorath at the age of 75. His heartbroken family announced the news, stating he will now be 'reunited' with his son Daniel, who tragically died as a teenager in 1992.
A Life of Footballing Highs and Personal Tragedy
Terry Yorath, born in Cardiff, enjoyed a storied career that saw him win 59 caps for Wales and become a key part of the legendary Leeds United team under Don Revie. He helped Leeds secure the First Division title in 1974 and captained Wales to the quarter-finals of the 1976 European Championship.
Yet his life was also marked by profound personal loss. In 1992, his 15-year-old son Daniel collapsed and died during a kickabout in their garden from an undiagnosed heart condition. Yorath later campaigned tirelessly with the charity Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY). Furthermore, he was a player-coach at Bradford City on the day of the Valley Parade fire in 1985, a disaster which claimed 56 lives.
Tributes from Family and the Football World
Yorath was the proud father of TV presenter Gabby Logan and her siblings Louise and Jordan. The family released a moving statement, saying: "To most he was a revered footballing hero, but to us he was dad; a quiet, kind and gentle man. Our hearts are broken but we take comfort knowing that he will be reunited with our brother, Daniel."
Gabby Logan was presenting BBC's Match of the Day when she had to leave abruptly due to the 'family emergency', with colleague Mark Chapman stepping in. Tributes have flooded in from across the sport. Former Wales captain Ashley Williams called him an "icon", while Dean Saunders recalled how even Graeme Souness named Yorath as the hardest competitor he faced.
A Legacy of Resilience and Influence
After his playing career, Yorath managed the Welsh national team from 1988 to 1993, coming agonisingly close to qualifying for the 1994 World Cup. Despite the setback, he remained a respected figure and a hero to future generations of Welsh players.
In later years, he found joy as a doting grandfather to Gabby's sons, Reuben and Lois, and her other grandchildren. He would often visit to help when Gabby was working and called her daily during the 2012 Olympics to express his pride. His legacy is one of immense footballing talent, profound resilience in the face of tragedy, and enduring love for his family.
Leeds United led club tributes, stating: "Everyone at Leeds United is devastated to learn of the passing of club legend Terry Yorath. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Terry's family, friends and former team-mates." He is survived by his ex-wife Christine and his grandchildren.
