The football world is in mourning following the death of Welsh icon Terry Yorath at the age of 75. His heartbroken family announced the news, stating they take comfort in knowing he will be 'reunited' with his son Daniel, who died tragically in 1992.
A Life of Footballing Highs and Personal Tragedy
Terry Yorath's career was marked by significant achievement and devastating personal loss. Born in Cardiff, he won 59 caps for Wales and was a key part of the legendary Leeds United team under Don Revie, winning the First Division title in 1974. He later managed the Welsh national team from 1988 to 1993, coming agonisingly close to qualifying for the 1994 World Cup.
Yet his life was forever scarred by the loss of his 15-year-old son, Daniel, in 1992. The teenager died from an undiagnosed heart condition during a kickabout with his father in their garden. Yorath later admitted he struggled to cope, turning to drink and visiting his son's grave nightly. He became a campaigner for the charity Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY).
He also survived the horrific Bradford City fire in 1985, which killed 56 fans. Then a player-coach for Bradford, he was injured escaping the blaze and was haunted by the memories for the rest of his life.
A Revered Competitor and a Gentle Father
Tributes have flooded in for a man described as a 'fearsome competitor' on the pitch and a 'quiet, kind and gentle' man at home. His family, including TV presenter daughter Gabby Logan and siblings Louise and Jordan, said in a statement: "To most he was a revered footballing hero, but to us he was dad."
The news broke on Wednesday evening, forcing Gabby Logan to leave her presenting role on BBC's Match of the Day to deal with the 'family emergency'. She was replaced by colleague Mark Chapman after 20 minutes.
Fellow Welsh legends shared their memories. Ashley Williams called him an "icon", while Dean Saunders recalled a story from Graeme Souness, who named Yorath as the only player he considered harder than himself.
A Legacy in Football and Family
Beyond his 199 appearances for Leeds, Yorath captained Wales to the quarter-finals of the 1976 European Championship and led them to a famous Wembley victory over England in 1977. His managerial career took him to several clubs after his Wales tenure ended.
In later life, he found joy as a doting grandfather to Gabby's sons, Reuben and Lois, often helping out when she was covering major events like the 2012 Olympics. Gabby previously spoke of how her father called her daily during the Games to express his pride.
Survived by his ex-wife Christine, Terry Yorath is remembered as a footballing giant whose strength was tested by unimaginable tragedy, yet who remained a deeply loved family man. Leeds United said the club was "devastated", sending thoughts to his family and friends.
