Prague – Jiří Valenta, a keyboardist and former member of the iconic Czech band Olympic, has died unexpectedly at the age of 66. The news, confirmed by the band on Tuesday morning, February 24, 2026, has sent shockwaves through the Czech music scene. Valenta’s passing marks a significant loss for fans and colleagues alike, bringing an end to a career spanning decades and marked by both creative success and personal challenges.
Olympic announced Valenta’s death on their social media channels, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of a musician who played a vital role in the band’s history. “The group Olympic, with deep sadness, announces that former member, keyboardist Jiří Valenta, who was part of Olympic from 1986-2020 and played hundreds of concerts with the band at home and abroad, has permanently left us,” the statement read, as reported by Topky.sk. The band described Valenta as a “distinctive personality” and a “respected musician.”
A Career Defined by Olympic
Born on May 4, 1959, Jiří Valenta joined Olympic in 1986, replacing Miroslav Berka. He quickly became an integral part of the band’s sound, contributing to countless performances and recordings over the next three decades. According to ta1.sk, Valenta played hundreds of concerts with Olympic both in the Czech Republic and internationally.
Before joining Olympic, Valenta honed his skills in several other bands, including Capitol, Kentaur, Karamel and Framus 5. He recounted how he came to join Olympic, explaining that his band Karamel had served as the opening act for Olympic at a concert in Prague’s Palace of Culture. “They saw me in the Karamel band. At that time, we were playing as the opening act for Olympic at the Palace of Culture in Prague. They invited me to an audition, they liked me, and so we shook hands,” Valenta said, as quoted by Topky.sk.
Health Challenges and Departure from the Band
Valenta’s time with Olympic came to an end in March 2020, when he left the band due to health reasons. He described feeling “burnt out” and facing personal challenges within his family. “Olympic gave me a huge musical experience, I got to recognize a piece of the world with it and experienced wonderful moments with the boys. It took a piece of my life and some youthful ideals from me, but it definitely gave me much more than it took,” Valenta stated after his departure, according to Topky.sk. He added, “I’m not dying, but I can’t play. I am totally burnt out, including health problems in the family. I know I will definitely return to music as soon as I get myself together.”
Pavel Březina subsequently replaced Valenta as the band’s keyboardist. Despite his departure, Valenta remained a respected figure within the Czech music community, and his contributions to Olympic’s legacy were widely acknowledged.
A Lasting Legacy
Jiří Valenta’s musical journey extended beyond his perform with Olympic. He was a versatile musician who left his mark on various musical projects throughout his career. His talent and dedication earned him the respect of his peers and the admiration of fans across generations. The impact of his work with Olympic, in particular, is undeniable, shaping the sound of Czech popular music for decades.
The news of Valenta’s death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fellow musicians and fans. Details regarding funeral arrangements have not yet been announced. The band Olympic has requested privacy during this difficult time.
The passing of Jiří Valenta serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring power of music. His contributions to the Czech music scene will continue to be celebrated for years to come.
Further updates regarding tributes and memorial services will be posted on the official Olympic band website and social media channels. Fans wishing to express their condolences are encouraged to share their memories and thoughts online.
