Former Portsmouth, Leicester and Sheffield Wednesday owner Milan Mandaric dies

His family said he passed away at a hospital in the Serbian capital of Belgrade on Saturday

Author: Kellie MaddoxPublished 5th Oct 2025
Last updated 5th Oct 2025

Former Portsmouth, Sheffield Wednesday and Leicester City owner Milan Mandaric has died at the age of 87.

His family released a statement which said he passed away at a hospital in the Serbian capital of Belgrade on Saturday (4 October) following a short illness.

It added: "His love for football was only surpassed by that for his family; he will be sadly missed by his two daughters and three grandchildren."

Mandaric owned Portsmouth from 1999 to 2006, Leicester from 2007 to 2010 and Wednesday between 2010 and 2015.

Portsmouth were promoted to the Premier League under his stewardship.

In a statement, the club said it was "mourning the loss of Milan Mandarić" and added "the thoughts of everyone at the club are with Milan’s family and friends at this sad time."

Sheffield Wednesday have also paid tribute: "Everyone at Sheffield Wednesday is deeply saddened by the passing of our former owner and chairman, Milan Mandaric."

The club added: "Our thoughts are with his family and friends worldwide at this extremely difficult time."

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