The skies over Romania are about to get a whole lot more iconic. TAROM has officially announced that its newest, most advanced aircraft—a sleek Boeing 737 MAX—will carry the name of the one and only Mircea Lucescu. This isn’t just a label; it’s a crown jewel in the national carrier’s fleet, honoring a man whose tactical brilliance echoed from Bucharest to Istanbul and Kyiv.

A Family Tribute, A National Pride

The protocol was signed on Wednesday by Lucescu’s wife Elena, his son Răzvan, and TAROM CEO Bogdan Costaş. But here’s the kicker: the family donated the rights for free. No cash, no fees—just pure respect for a legacy that redefined Romanian football. Răzvan Lucescu called it an emotional honor, hoping the plane becomes a symbol of performance and safe travels. Can you get more classy than that?

Costaş didn’t hold back either. He noted that Lucescu embodies the very soul of TAROM: rising from humble beginnings through discipline, moral strength, and relentless work. Just like the coach led teams against all odds, this aircraft will soar above the clouds, carrying the spirit of resilience.

When Will You Fly on the "Lucescu"?

Remember the "Nadia Comăneci" Boeing 737-800? That was the first sports tribute in 2024. Now, the baton passes to the Maestro. The new MAX jet is slated to arrive this summer, hitting routes to major European capitals. According to Costaş, the first MAX lands in July, the second in August, and the third next March. So mark your calendars: soon, you’ll be cruising at 35,000 feet in a machine named after a football genius. Who else gets this kind of treatment? Not many. This is history in the making.