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Tributes pour in as Champions League founder Lennart Johansson dies, aged 89

Champions League founder Lennart Johansson has died at the age of 89, after a short illness.

The Swede was president of UEFA from 1990 until 2007 and oversaw the introduction in 1992 of the Champions League — one of the most significant developments in the history of the old European Cup.

“I am heartbroken by the news of the passing of Lennart Johansson,” FIFA president Gianni Infantino said. “He was a friend and an invaluable source of wisdom and inspiration.”

He also served as a vice-president of FIFA, but lost a presidency contest to Sepp Blatter in 1998. He was also president of the Swedish FA from 1984 to 1991 and had close ties with the AIK Solna club.

Uefa president Aleksander Ceferin said: “I would like to express my sincerest condolences to his family and loved ones, as well as to the Swedish Football Association.

“He will always be remembered as a visionary leader and as the architect of the UEFA Champions League. [We] will always be grateful to him.”

UEFA announced a minute’s silence will be observed at the Nations League finals, European qualifiers and Under-21 matches taking place this week.