Iranian veteran sports journalist Abbas Abdolmaleki passes away from kidney disease at the age of 55.

Abdolmaleki died in Tehran’s Imam Khomeini Hospital Friday night.

He worked as deputy editor-in-chief in the most widely circulated sports newspaper in Iran Khabar Varzeshi (Sports News) for six years. Abdolmaleki also worked as editor-in-chief of Khabar Varzeshi for five years.

Abdolmaleki worked in Iranian sports weekly Pahlevan and sports newspapers Alborz, Esteghlal Javaan, Shoot Varzeshi and Navad.

He also served as a head coach in Peyman Football Club and introduced young star Hamed Kavianpour to Iran football. The player later became an international player.

Abdolmaleki will be laid to rest on Monday or Tuesday at the Behesht-e Zahra cemetery in Tehran.

Iranian sports family express condolences over the death of the veteran journalist.