Former Napoli and Real Madrid Colombia midfielder Rincon who scored 17 goals for Colombia and played at 1990, 1994, and 1998 World Cups have passed on. He shares with Carlos Valderrama the record for the most appearances at the tournament for his country, having played in 10 World Cup games.
Rincon was part of the side that ended the nation’s 28-year wait to play at the World Cup when they qualified for the 1990 finals and scored a memorable goal in a 1-1 draw against eventual winners West Germany. The player also played for Italian top side Napoli before playing for Palmeiras and Santos, as well as leading Corinthians to victory in 2000 at the first Fifa Club World Championship now the Club World Cup.
He was involved in a car accident recently and was taken to the hospital, reporting reaching us this morning is “Despite all the efforts of our teams, Freddy Eusebio Rincon Valencia has passed away.” The information was made known by Laureano Quintero who is the medical director of the Imbanaco Clinic in Cali where Rincon was being treated.
The Colombian Football Federation (FCF) said it mourned the death of Rincon. “We will miss him and remember him with great affection, appreciation, respect, and admiration,” said the FCF. “We send strength, support, and our condolences to his family, hoping they can bear this sad and painful loss.”
Brazilian club Corinthians where he was once their skipper also posted “our captain” leading them to their Fifa Club World Championship success in 2000. “It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to a great idol,” they said on social media. “Eternally in our hearts.”
Fifa, football’s world governing body, sent its “sincere condolences” to Rincon’s “loved ones, former team-mates and fans from the clubs he played for, and of the Colombia national team”. “Rest in Peace” it added.
Italian club Napoli said they would also like to send their condolences to the family of Rincon, who played for them during the 1994-95 season.