the players were on the field when they learned that the sporting director had died in the stands
Article by Alexandru Tomuțiu – Published Monday, November 10, 2025, 10:52 p.m. / Updated Monday, November 10, 2025 10:52 p.m.
Ivan Dobozi, the technical manager of the men's handball club OTP Bank-Pick Szeged, died in Pick Arsna, immediately after the derby with Veszprem, score 31-32, after suffering a stroke.
Dobozi Ivan, who died aged 69, was in the stands when he was taken ill and died.
Ivan Dobozi died when Veszprem's handball players were celebrating the victory
Everything happened right after the referee's final whistle, when the players of the visitors were celebrating the victory against the rival. Dobozi had been active in the club for 37 years, according to sportal.hu.
“Veszprem handball players started to celebrate a sweet victory over their eternal rival, score 32:31, after sixty minutes of tense derby.
They were celebrating in the circle, but they were stopped by the legendary Laszlo Nagy, their sports director, who asked them to stop out of respect for the opponent, because a tragedy had just occurred”.
My dear Ivan. When I came to Seghedin in 2014, you were the first person I met. You welcomed me with a smile, good humor and warmth. Over the years, you have always been by my side with kind words, a smile and a sincere heart.
With your warmth, you not only touched me, but also my family. We all loved you. When I go back to Szeged, I will miss something. Thank you for all the conversations, smiles and kindness you have shared with me. Rest in peace my friend.
Dean Bombac, former student of Ivan Dobozi
