Tragic news was received on Wednesday from the hospital in Szekesfehervar. Ferenc Kovacs had unexpectedly become worse during the day and passed away. 

The clubs honorary president was born in Budapest on the 7th January 1934. He made it through the MTK youth ranks and made his debut in the first division in 1954. He would stay with the blue and whites for 10 years. He was a league winner with the Budapest side and also helped them to European success. He was part of the Olympic side that picked up a bronze medal at the Rome games. 

He began his coaching career within the MTK youth system in 1965. However, he was already in the dugout of the first team in season 1968-69. He would go onto manage Egri Dozsa between 1970-72 and Videoton SC from 1972-78. Vasas SC was next in 1978-79 and also a spell in charge of the Hungarian side. DVSC also experienced him as manager between 1980-83. He would return once again to manager Videoton SC from 1983-86, and Spanish side Las Palmas in 1986-87. His third spell in charge of Videoton SC came in 1987-88, before he moved south to take charge of Szeged SC in 1989-90. Ujpest was also on his managerial record from 1990-93.

He picked up the best manager award in 1983 but his biggest success was no doubt as manager of this club. He guided the team to second place in 1976 and third place in 1984 and 1985. However, he would manage Videoton to the UEFA Cup final in season 1984-85, which remains until today the last biggest success of any Hungarian side. That has quite correctly given him legendary status in the city of Szekesfehervar ever since. 

"I am stunned and shocked at this tragedy. We were celebrating together just a couple of days ago after winning the league title and we were planning the future" - explained club owner Istvan Garancsi, after hearing the tragic news.

Ferenc Kovacs had remained active over recent years within football on a daily basis. He had been the clubs Honorary President since 2008 and also worked for the Hungarian FA. He was ever present at Vidi games and also at training sessions. He also followed the team to away matches. He was naturally in place to celebrate the clubs third title win at the weekend at the Pancho Arena. He will sadly now watch the handing over of the trophy from above. 

Rest in Peace Mr Kovacs!