Jorge Costa, the former captain of FC Porto and current football director of the club, tragically passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest at the club’s training center in Vila Nova de Gaia on Tuesday. He was transported to São João Hospital in critical condition but unfortunately did not survive. His death was officially declared at 2:17 PM.
The news regarding Costa’s cardiac arrest was confirmed by PÚBLICO, revealing that he was at the Olival training center when the medical team of FC Porto provided immediate assistance before his transfer to the hospital.
At the age of 53, Costa had a history of cardiac issues; in May 2022, he was hospitalized after a heart attack and underwent a catheterization procedure. Following that incident, he had been regularly monitored but had not encountered any serious health problems until this unfortunate event.
Jorge Costa remains a legendary figure for the “dragons.” During his playing career, he won eight league titles, a UEFA Cup, and a Champions League, dedicating his efforts to FC Porto. He served as team captain and retained the affection of the club’s supporters even after his playing days ended. In 2024, he returned to the club at the invitation of André Villas-Boas to participate in the presidential candidacy for FC Porto. Just over a year ago, he took up the role of director of football, frequently sitting on the bench during matches.
This tragic loss resonates deeply within the FC Porto community, highlighting the impact Costa had on the club both on and off the pitch. His legacy as a player and leader will be cherished by fans and teammates alike, serving as a reminder of his significant contributions to the team’s storied history.