Geingob tributes keep flowing 

FIFA president Gianni Infantino extended his condolences to Namibia over the death of president Hage Geingob, whom Athletics Namibia described as “symbol of unity”.

Geingob, Namibia’s third president, died on Sunday.

Infantino said Geingob was “a distinguished servant of the people” whose deeds would be treasured.

“Please accept our deepest condolences on hearing of the passing of the president of the Republic of

Namibia, his excellency Dr Hage G Geingob,” he said in his letter to the Namibia Football Association on Monday.

“Tributes are flowing in from all over the world for your leader, and we would like to join them. President of the Republic of Namibia since 2015, having previously served as prime minister, important figure of the country’s history and independence, recognised as a distinguished servant of the people, his legacy and achievements will be remembered, and he will be truly missed,” Infantino said.

“On behalf of the members of the international football community, we wish to extend our deepest condolences to you, your government, the population of Namibia and, most importantly, to Dr Hage Geingob’s family and loved ones.”

Similarly, Athletics Namibia (AN) joined the chorus of tributes to the fallen “sport champion”.

“Athletics Namibia fondly recalls his deep passion for sports. As a devoted fan, he not only watched various sport codes, but actively supported athletics Namibia,” AN said in statement.

“His commitment extended to launching the Frankie Fredericks Foundation (FFF) in 1999, showcasing his dedication to athletes’ education. President Geingob’s pride in Namibia’s achievements, like Christine Mboma’s silver medal in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, was evident,” the statement continued.

“His legacy as a beacon of hope and Namibia’s foremost sport enthusiast will be dearly missed by the entire sport community. The memory of his leadership and commitment to the nation will remain a source of inspiration today and for generations to come.

“Dr Hage Geingob: A true statesman, a symbol of unity. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

The FFF expressed shock and sorrow at “the untimely passing” of its patron.

“He was a sport lover and the foundation will always remember him for his continued support on bettering sport development in Namibia. May his legacy of services and commitment continue to inspire us. FFF mourns with you,” the foundation said in a Facebook post.

The Namibia Rugby Union, of which the base is named after Geingob, said: “Dr Hage Geingob was an integral part of rugby in Namibia, as we hosted the Dr Hage Geingob Cup in 2022 in honour of his excellency. Namibia Rugby has lost its patron, and we will continue to honour the memory of our president.”