The football world is in mourning as Madagascar loses one of its most iconic figures. Michel Kira, known as ‘Maître Kira’, a legendary name of the ‘Club M’ (the Malagasy national team of his generation), has passed away at the age of 76, according to the Malagasy Football Federation (FMF). For nearly two decades, this footballer wore the national team jersey before continuing his commitment as a coach and trainer.
Maître Kira was 18 when he joined Club M, becoming the youngest player in the national squad at the time. He quickly established himself and played for seventeen years alongside several prominent figures of Malagasy football, frequently serving as team captain. Wearing the Club M jersey, Maître Kira participated in the qualification campaigns for four World Cups: 1970, 1974, 1978, and 1982.
After his playing career, Maître Kira remained involved in the world of football. He dedicated himself notably to training young players in Toliara and supervising national teams. His name remains linked to his hometown, where the stadium located in Andaboly bears his name.
Captured & Published at: 2026-09-25 00:38:34 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.2424.mg/necrologie-maitre-kira-legende-du-football-malgache-raccroche-definitivement-ses-crampons/