Jiří Valenta, a former keyboardist for the iconic Czech band Olympic, died by suicide on February 25, 2026, at the age of 66, his family confirmed. Valenta reportedly shot himself near a river, according to reports in Czech media.
The news of Valenta’s death was first announced by Olympic on their Facebook page, with the band expressing their deep sorrow and offering condolences to his family, colleagues, and friends. “Jirka was a prominent personality of the band and a respected musician. His premature death has deeply affected us,” the band stated.
Valenta was a member of Olympic from 1986 until his departure in 2020, citing health reasons. During his 34 years with the group, he participated in hundreds of concerts both domestically and internationally. Petr Kolář, a friend of Valenta’s, described him as “a good friend who loved music.” Kolář expressed shock at the news, stating he had recently seen Valenta and he appeared to be doing well. “I don’t realize why this happened,” Kolář said, according to CNN Prima News. He too noted that Valenta had struggled with his decision to leave Olympic, describing a sense of “a submarine” within the band during his later years there.
Kolář further revealed that Valenta had formed his own band and continued to perform Olympic songs, which he found somewhat unusual. “It’s not the first or last time this happens, but it’s sad. He could have still been here,” Kolář added.
Olympic, founded in 1962, is a cornerstone of the Czech music scene. The band debuted in 1968 with the album Želva, considered the first Czech beat long-playing record. Valenta’s departure in 2020 marked the finish of a significant era for the band, though the reasons behind his decision were previously understood to be related to his health.
Petr Janda, another member of Olympic, is reportedly deeply saddened by Valenta’s death. No further statements have been released by Janda at this time.
