Lord Triesman, former chairman of the Football Association (FA), has passed away at the age of 82. His death was confirmed by the Labour Party, stating he died peacefully at home on Friday night.
Career Highlights of Lord Triesman
Before assuming a leadership role in football, Lord Triesman held significant positions across various sectors. He served as:
- General Secretary of the Association of University Teachers
- General Secretary of the Labour Party
In 2010, he became the shadow minister for foreign affairs when the Labour Party entered opposition. During his tenure, he was widely known for his unwavering passion for football.
Leadership in Football
As the first independent chair of the FA, Lord Triesman made notable contributions to English football. He was involved in England’s bid for the 2018 World Cup but resigned in May 2010 following an incident where he was recorded making controversial remarks about rival bidders. He described these comments as part of a private discussion, intended to be taken lightly.
After the incident, he emphasized the need for a cultural shift within FIFA to address ongoing corruption allegations. His commitment to transparency and integrity in football was commendable.
Tributes to Lord Triesman
His passing prompted tributes from various political and football communities. Prime Minister Sir Tony expressed his sadness on social media, noting Lord Triesman’s deep passion for both the Labour Party and football. He praised him for his dedication to improving people’s lives.
Baroness Angela Smith, Leader of the House of Lords, remarked on Lord Triesman’s kindness, wisdom, and generosity. She stated he was highly respected among colleagues for his courteous demeanor.
Family Remembered
Lord Triesman is survived by his wife, Lucy, and their daughter, Ilona. His legacy in both politics and football will be remembered fondly by many.
