Former Lazio Star and Ukrainian Footballer Vyacheslav Sharpar Pass Away

Remembering Igor Protti and Vyacheslav Sharpar

According to Главком: The sports world mourns the loss of two notable footballers: Italian striker Igor Protti and Ukrainian midfielder Vyacheslav Sharpar. Protti, 58, is best remembered for his time at Serie A club Lazio, where he played from 1996 to 1997 and again from 1998 onward. He left a lasting mark by winning the Serie A top scorer title in 1996. Diagnosed with bowel cancer in June 2025, he sadly succumbed to the illness. Over his career, Protti also represented Livorno, Bari, and Napoli. His most memorable season came in 1995/96, when he netted 24 goals for Bari, and he later lifted the Italian Super Cup with Lazio in 1998.

Vyacheslav Sharpar's Legacy

Vyacheslav Sharpar, another talented footballer, has also passed away. He gained recognition for his stints with Ukrainian clubs Vorskla, Volyn, and Metalist. During the 2018/19 season, he scored against Arsenal London in the Europa League. With Metalist, he earned a bronze medal in the Ukrainian Premier League in 2011. Sharpar also played for Hoverla, Kyiv Arsenal, and Kazakhstan's Atyrau. His career highlights include winning the Moldovan championship and cup with Sheriff, as well as a Latvian league title with FC Riga. He made two appearances for Ukraine's U-21 national team and ended his professional journey in 2021 while playing for Volyn.

Lazio's press office paid tribute to Protti, stating: 'Top scorer in Serie A, B, and C, he won the hearts of all fans and scored unforgettable goals. A role model on the pitch, a role model even during his illness.'

The passing of Igor Protti and Vyacheslav Sharpar is a profound loss for both Ukrainian and international football. Both athletes left a bright legacy on and off the field, inspiring future generations of players. Their memory will live on in the hearts of fans and colleagues who cherish their contributions to the sport.

The football community continues to grieve the loss of remarkable figures, as the recent passing of Eric Roy and Vyacheslav Sharpar highlights the impact these athletes had both on and off the pitch. Their contributions to the sport resonate with fans and players alike, making the remembrance of their legacies even more poignant during this time of mourning.