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The message reads, in part:

“A bright, extraordinary, and infinitely dedicated individual, a true legend of domestic and world football, has departed this life. Nikita Simonyan was esteemed by his comrades at Spartak and our national team for his skill, strength of spirit, and loyalty to the team. He was respected by rivals and sincerely loved by millions of fans, for whom he was an acknowledged idol.

The memory of Nikita Simonyan will forever remain in the hearts of his family and loved ones, friends and trainees, and all admirers of the number one game in Russia.”

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Nikita Simonyan was a four-time champion of the USSR and a two-time winner of the national cup as part of Spartak. Together with the USSR national team, he claimed gold at the Olympic Games in Melbourne. As a coach, he became a three-time champion of the USSR and a four-time winner of the national cup. From 1992, he held the position of First Vice-President of the Russian Football Union.

For his outstanding achievements in football, Simonyan was awarded the orders of the IOC and FIFA, as well as the Order for Services to the Fatherland (III and IV degrees). In October, Simonyan was bestowed the title of Hero of Labour of Russia for his exceptional services to the state and his significant contribution to the development and popularisation of domestic football.

Nikita Simonyan passed away on November 23 in his 100^th year.