Kurt Hamrin, 1958 World Cup final’s last surviving player, dies aged 89
The Swedish great remains Fiorentina’s record goal-scorer
Your support helps us to tell the story
This election is still a dead heat, according to most polls. In a fight with such wafer-thin margins, we need reporters on the ground talking to the people Trump and Harris are courting. Your support allows us to keep sending journalists to the story.
The Independent is trusted by 27 million Americans from across the entire political spectrum every month. Unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock you out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. But quality journalism must still be paid for.
Help us keep bring these critical stories to light. Your support makes all the difference.
Tributes have been paid to Kurt Hamrin, the last surviving player from the 1958 World Cup final, who has died at the age of 89.
Hamrin scored in wins over the Soviet Union and West Germany to lead hosts Sweden to the final, where they were beaten 5-2 by a Pele-inspired Brazil.
Having made his debut for AIK in Stockholm at the age of 17, Hamrin went to play for a number of top Italian teams, winning the European Cup with AC Milan in 1969.
He played for nine seasons for Fiorentina, for whom he remains their record goalscorer, and settled in the city when his playing career came to a close in 1972.
In a statement, Fiorentina called Hamrin “a true legend”, while the Swedish Football Federation also paid tribute, writing: “Swedish football has lost one of its greats.
“It wasn’t just the track record, the goals, the passes and the hard work on the right wing that made ‘Kurre’ a legend who was never forgotten. He was a loyal and popular person wherever he played.
“Swedish football remembers Kurre Hamrin with great warmth and gratitude. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones right now.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments