BUCHAREST — Mihai Leu, the first Romanian to win a professional world boxing title and later a national rally champion, has died at the age of 56 after a long illness. He passed away on July 1, 2025, at Fundeni Clinical Institute in Bucharest.
Leu was born on February 13, 1969, in Hunedoara, Romania. He began boxing at a young age and quickly rose through the ranks. In 1987, he became World Junior Champion. After turning professional in 1991, he built an impressive career in Germany.
In 1997, Leu made history by winning the WBO Welterweight Championship, becoming Romania’s first world champion in professional boxing. He retired the following year, unbeaten, with a perfect record of 28 wins and no losses.
After boxing, Leu moved into motorsports. He found success again, winning the Romanian National Rally Championship in 2003.
In 2014, he was diagnosed with colon cancer. He fought the disease for over a decade, undergoing several surgeries. In June 2025, his condition worsened, and he was flown by helicopter to the hospital in critical condition. Despite efforts to stabilize him, he died surrounded by family and loved ones.
Mihai Leu will be remembered as a champion in both boxing and rally driving, and as a fighter in life as well as sport. He inspired many with his determination, discipline, and courage.
He is survived by his wife and son. Funeral arrangements have not yet been made public.
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