Almaty, 26 October. Rafael Urazbakhtin, Kairat's head coach, has resigned of his own accord, the club's management has accepted his resignation, and Zhora Arutyunyan, who previously ran Kairat-Zhastar, has been named caretaker head coach, the club's press service said.
The decision came the day after a 2-2 draw with Aktobe in round 29 of the Premier League, a result that ended Kairat's chances of a third straight title: Shymkent's Ordabasy became champions with a round to spare. The club's statement gives no reasons for his departure. "Kairat Football Club sincerely thanks Rafael Radikovich for his work, professionalism and invaluable contribution to the club's history," the statement says.
The 47-year-old Urazbakhtin took charge of the first team in September 2024, replacing Alexander Kerzhakov, and led it to the title that same season. In 2025 Kairat under him won the Kazakhstan Super Cup, defended the title and reached the UEFA Champions League league phase for the first time in the club's history. In 2026 the team reached the Conference League league phase and finished second in the championship.
Arutyunyan will prepare the team for the final, 30th round: on 31 October in Almaty Kairat host Altai of Oskemen.
What it means: Kairat's most successful coach of recent years is leaving straight after the club lost the title. Neither the club nor the coach has said whether that is the only reason.
Who benefits: The club gains a free hand to choose a new coach before the winter break. Urazbakhtin leaves at the height of his reputation: two titles and the Champions League in two years.
Background: Kairat are one of Kazakhstan's most decorated clubs, with five league titles.
We have also reported that Ordabasy won the Kazakhstan title with a round to spare.
