A star has faded. Malagasy sport, and football in particular, is in mourning. The iconic figure of Malagasy football, Kira Michel, known as ‘Maître Kira’, passed away on Thursday evening at the age of 76, following a year-long battle with cancer.
Born on April 7, 1950, in Besakoa, Toliara, he became the youngest player to join the national team, then known as ‘Club M’, in 1968 at the age of 18, often serving as captain. He first made his mark at age 15 in school competitions. After being scouted by the Sport Olympique de Besakoa, he joined the club before shining with the AS Corps Enseignants of Toliara.
Throughout his illustrious career, he spent 17 years with the national team, participating in World Cup qualification campaigns in 1970, 1974, 1978, and 1982. Known as the ‘Malagasy Pelé’, he was a formidable attacking midfielder with a powerful shot, famously scoring against Zaire in 1980. Former teammate Salomon Charlot Andriamady recalled his magical ball control and precision passing.
After his playing career, Maître Kira transitioned into coaching, mentoring youth in Toliara and later leading the national junior team. In 2007, he coached the national team for the Indian Ocean Island Games. In 1997, the Andaboly stadium in Toliara was renamed ‘Kianja Maître Kira’ in his honor. In his final years, he struggled with health issues and financial hardship, which prompted a wave of solidarity and fundraising efforts from the public.
Captured & Published at: 2026-09-26 06:38:35 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/09/deces-la-legende-maitre-kira-sest.html