Brazilian footballer Gabriel Popo has tragically passed away at the age of 26 just before a match he was set to play in. Reports indicate that he suffered a medical emergency and was initially treated at the stadium before being rushed to a hospital in São Paulo, where he died on Sunday.
The match between his team, XV de Jaú, and União Suzano, scheduled for the third round of the Campeonato Paulista, was immediately called off. In a tribute posted on Instagram, XV de Jaú expressed their sorrow, saying, “It is with immeasurable pain and sadness that we announce the passing of athlete Gabriel Protasio, known as Popo.” The club also mentioned that Popo was treated at the stadium before being transferred to Santa Casa de Jaú.
The football federation, along with both teams, agreed to cancel the match out of respect for the tragedy. The club extended their condolences to Popo’s family, teammates, and friends, offering solidarity during this painful time.
While the cause of death has not been disclosed, the athlete had made 41 career appearances, scoring three goals. His former club, Santa Cruz, where he played in 2023, also paid tribute to him, expressing deep regret over his sudden passing and offering condolences to his family, particularly his daughter Mayla.
