JUDr. Ján Pivarník, born on November 13, 1947, is a distinguished former Slovak football player and a seasoned football manager. His illustrious playing career saw him represent Czechoslovakia, where he earned thirty-nine caps and played a pivotal role in the national team's success.
One of the highlights of Pivarník's career was his contribution to the Czechoslovakian victory in the 1976 UEFA European Championship, where they triumphed over West Germany, led by the legendary Franz Beckenbauer. His exceptional skills on the field earned him a spot in the All-Star Team of the tournament, and he was recognized as the best right defender in Europe during that time.
Known for his remarkable speed, Pivarník was considered the quickest football player in the world, clocking an impressive one hundred meters in just ten point nine seconds. He primarily played for Slovan Bratislava, where he made a significant impact before transitioning into coaching.
After hanging up his boots, Pivarník dedicated twenty-five years to coaching, sharing his expertise across various countries, including Portugal, Austria, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, the UAE, and Oman. His coaching career has been marked by success and a commitment to developing the next generation of football talent.