New Delhi, September 14 (Daily Kiran) : Ludek Miklosko, the former goalkeeper for West Ham United and the Czech Republic national football team, has died at the age of 64 after a prolonged illness. His passing was announced on September 14, 2026.
Miklosko was a celebrated figure at West Ham, where he played over 300 matches in the English Premier League. He was diagnosed with cancer in 2021 and opted to stop treatment in December 2024. West Ham paid tribute to Miklosko, who was named the club’s “Hammer of the Year” in the 1990-91 season. In a statement, the club expressed deep sorrow over his passing, highlighting his legacy as an inspiring goalkeeper and a kind-hearted individual.
His son, Martin Miklosko, shared his heartbreak over the loss, noting his father’s love for West Ham. “Our hearts are broken to announce the passing of my father, Ludek, who fought bravely against cancer. Dad had a great affection for West Ham United, and he especially loved hearing his name chanted with pride at every match. The club and its fans were part of our family and always will be, so thank you all from the bottom of our hearts,” he said.
In honor of Miklosko, West Ham will hold a special tribute before their Carabao Cup match against Fulham. Additionally, they will dedicate their upcoming Championship match against QPR on October 9 to his memory. Miklosko played for West Ham from 1990 to 1998 and then had a stint with QPR from 1998 to 2001.
The Czech Football Association also paid its respects to Miklosko, who represented Czechoslovakia from 1982 to 1992 and later the Czech Republic in 1996 and 1997. They described his death as a tragic loss for Czech football. “Ludek Miklosko, a key player for both Czechoslovakia and the Czech national team, has passed away at 64 after battling a severe illness,” the statement read.
David Trunda, chairman of the Czech Football Association, expressed his condolences, stating, “I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Ludek Miklosko, one of the leading figures in Czech football. His contributions to the sport left a significant mark and earned him respect both in the Czech Republic and abroad.”
Trunda further emphasized that Miklosko’s name will always be associated with a pivotal era in Czech football and the values he represented as a player and a person. He extended his heartfelt sympathies to Miklosko’s family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
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