Former EHF Vice President Hans-Jürgen Hinrichs passes away

It is the sad duty of the EHF to report the death of former EHF Vice President, Hans-Jürgen Hinrichs.

Hinrichs was a founding member of the federation and served as vice president from 1991 through to 2000.

A former handball player himself, he played in goal for THW Kiel and won the German championship in 1957. He also played for the German national team playing in the World Championships in 1958 and 1961.

At the 1964 World Championship, Henrichs played for the USA national team following his relocation to the country as part of his work for Volkswagen.

Following his sporting career he turned to his hand to sports politics and was president of the German Handball Federation from 1989 to 1993.

Commenting on Hans-Jürgen's death, Michael Wiederer, EHF Secretary General said: “As one of the founding fathers of the European Handball Federation, Hans-Jürgen will be sadly missed by all within the European handball family.

"Over the years, he brought to our sport not only a breadth of experience from his playing days but also professional expertise from his successful career with both Volkswagen and Daimler-Benz.”

The thoughts and sincere condolances of all those at the EHF are with his family and friends at this time.