September 11 – Mike Lee, former UEFA head of communications and widely regarded as one of the gurus of British sports public relations, has died suddenly of a heart attack aged 61.
Lee, an expert in campaign strategy who was awarded an OBE, founded VERO Communications and was a key figure behind a string of successful sporting bids, not least Qatar’s upset victory to host the 2022 World Cup and London’s successful 2012 Olympic campaign when the city took on and beat Paris.
“It is with enormous sadness that the Lee family and VERO Communications announce that Mike Lee passed away on Saturday (September 8) at the age of 61 from a heart attack,” read a statement from VERO.
Lee had taken a back seat over the past year to study a Masters degree and pursue other interests, in particular cycling.
The company said that thanks to Lee’s legacy and his building up a strong team “VERO is well positioned for the future”.
“He was a force in communications – always inspiring, challenging and innovative and leaves an indelible legacy in the world of sport,” said VERO director John Zerafa
“He will be deeply missed by all those who have worked with him, and been advised by him. On behalf of the entire VERO team, our thoughts are with Mike’s wife Heather, his son Alex and step-son Euan.”
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