František Plánička 1904 – 1996

Biography

František Plánička was born on June 2, 1904, in Prague, during a transformative period in Czech history. He would go on to become a notable figure in Czech association football, contributing to the sport during a formative era of the game in Central Europe. His life spanned most of the twentieth century, witnessing tremendous social and political change in his homeland.

Throughout his life, Plánička remained connected to Prague, the city of his birth. He dedicated himself to football, a sport that was growing in popularity across Europe during his playing years. His involvement in the sport reflected the passion and enthusiasm that characterized Czech athletic culture during the early and mid-twentieth century.

Plánička lived a full life, remaining in Prague until his death on July 20, 1996, at the age of ninety-one. His long life allowed him to see football evolve from a developing pastime into a central element of Czech culture and identity. He was laid to rest at Olšany Cemetery in Prague, a final resting place that has honored many notable figures throughout its history.