Legendary 1860 Munich Coach Werner Lorant Dies at 76

Werner Lorant, the iconic and often controversial coach who led TSV 1860 Munich from the depths of the third division back to the Bundesliga and into European competition, has died. He was 76. Lorant passed away on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, in a hospital in Wasserburg am Inn, Germany, after a prolonged illness, his sister Erika confirmed. His death marks the end of an era for the Munich club and German football, where he was known as "Beinhart" ("tough as nails") for his uncompromising style.

From Welver to Bundesliga

Born on Nov. 21, 1948, in Welver, North Rhine-Westphalia, Werner Heinz Erich Lorant initially trained as a painter and decorator before dedicating himself to a career in professional football. He began his playing career in 1970 with Westfalia Herne, later playing as a defender and defensive midfielder for Borussia Dortmund, Rot-Weiss Essen, Eintracht Frankfurt, Schalke 04, and Hannover 96. He played in 325 Bundesliga matches. With Eintracht Frankfurt, he won the DFB-Pokal (German Cup) and the UEFA Cup.

After a brief stint coaching an amateur team, Lorant began his full-time coaching career in 1984. Before arriving at 1860 Munich, he coached 1. FC Schweinfurt 05 and Viktoria Aschaffenburg, achieving promotion with Schweinfurt and winning a championship with Aschaffenburg.

The Lion Tamer

Lorant's most significant achievement came during his nine-year tenure at TSV 1860 Munich, from 1992 to 2001. When he took over, the club was languishing in the third tier of German football. In just two years, he guided them back to the Bundesliga. He not only restored the club's status but also instilled a fierce competitive spirit.

Under Lorant's leadership, 1860 Munich qualified for the UEFA Cup in 1997 and narrowly missed out on Champions League qualification in 2000, losing to Leeds United. The team's UEFA Cup run was halted by AC Parma. During this period, the "Munich Lions" also celebrated memorable derby victories against their more illustrious local rivals, Bayern Munich.

His success was built on a foundation of discipline, hard work, and a direct, often abrasive, approach. He famously said, "I only make changes when someone breaks a leg," reflecting his reluctance to alter a winning formula.

Beyond Munich

After his departure from 1860 Munich in October 2001, Lorant's coaching career took him to various international destinations, including Turkey (Fenerbahçe, Sivasspor, Kayseri Erciyesspor), South Korea (Incheon United), Cyprus (APOEL), China (Liaoning), and Austria (FC Hallein). He also had spells at LR Ahlen and SpVgg Unterhaching in Germany.

Despite his travels, Lorant's legacy remained firmly rooted in Munich. His time at 1860 was marked by both success and controversy, but he is remembered as the man who brought the club back to prominence after years in the wilderness.

A Life Remembered

In his later years, Lorant lived a quieter life in Waging am See, Bavaria, with his girlfriend Brigitte and his dog Jackson. He coached children at a local football school.

News of Lorant's death prompted tributes from across the German football community. FC Bayern Munich, 1860's rival, expressed their condolences to his family and loved ones, acknowledging the unforgettable derbies during his time at the club. TSV 1860 Munich released a statement saying, "Werner Lorant was a coaching legend. He left a deep mark on TSV 1860 Munich."

Werner Lorant is survived by his sister, Erika. His impact on German football, particularly at TSV 1860 Munich, will long be remembered. He was a complex figure, known for his toughness and directness, but also for his passion for the game and his ability to inspire his players. His death marks the end of an era, but his legacy as the man who revived the "Lions" will endure.