Germany Mourns Loss of Iconic Football Striker
Germany is in mourning following the death of football legend and 1990 World Cup winner, Frank Mill, who passed away in the early hours of Monday, August 5, 2025, at the age of 67.
According to reports, Mill died from complications related to a heart attack he suffered earlier in May while at Milan Malpensa Airport. He had been in Italy for the filming of a documentary on Germany’s historic 1990 World Cup triumph. Though initially resuscitated by paramedics and flown back to Essen for treatment, he never fully recovered. He passed away peacefully at 2:30 a.m., surrounded by family.
Born on July 23, 1958, in Essen, Frank Mill began his illustrious career at Rot-Weiss Essen, before going on to become one of the most respected strikers in the Bundesliga. He played for Borussia Mönchengladbach from 1981 to 1986 and Borussia Dortmund from 1986 to 1994, scoring over 100 goals in his Bundesliga career. He later joined Fortuna Düsseldorf, where he eventually retired and later served in an administrative capacity.
Mill made 17 appearances for the West Germany national team and was part of the victorious squad that won the 1990 FIFA World Cup in Italy under coach Franz Beckenbauer. He also represented West Germany in the 1984 Summer Olympics, where the team secured a bronze medal.
He is remembered not only for his on-pitch brilliance but also for his enduring commitment to the sport. Even after retirement, Mill stayed active, frequently playing in exhibition matches with Borussia Dortmund’s veterans team as recently as 2024.
Tributes have been pouring in from clubs, fans, and footballing figures across the country.
In a statement posted to social media, Fortuna Düsseldorf said:
"Rest in peace, Frank Mill. A part of our club history is gone. Our thoughts are with Frank’s family and all who knew him."
Rot-Weiss Essen, where Mill began his journey, also paid tribute:
"Rot-Weiss Essen mourns the loss of its former striker and honorary member. Frank Mill was not only a footballer but a symbol of our city’s football legacy. Rest in peace, legend."
Mill is survived by his three children — Vanessa, Kevin, and Max — and a legacy that spans decades in German football history.
As the football world bids farewell to one of its champions, Frank Mill's name will forever be etched among the greats who defined German excellence on the global stage.
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