A former Valencia player has died in the horror flash floods that rocked the Spanish city, the La Liga club have confirmed. Jose Castillejo, 28, was killed after the city was battered with torrential rainfall on Tuesday night.
The La Liga giants have now paid tribute to Castillejo, who came through the club’s youth academy. A statement from Valencia CF officials reads: “Valencia CF mourn the passing of José Castillejo, casualty of the flash floodings. José Castillejo came up through the [club’s] youth system up to U18 level and played for other teams in the region.”
Another of his former clubs, Eldense, paid a tribute of their own. They said: “Terrible news coming from the catastrophic DANA. CD Eldense deeply regrets the death at the age of 28 of José Castillejo, former blue-and-red player in the 2015/2016 season. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends. Rest in peace.”
Castillejo, a midfielder, was in Valencia’s academy and played for the club up to Under-19 level. He subsequently spent time with Eldense, Bunol, Recambios Colon, Roda, Torre Levante and Villamarxant.
“We regret to announce the death of Jose Castillejo, who defended our shirt during the 18/19 season,” a statement from Roda read. “Rest in peace, Jose. We will always remember you. We send our love to your family and friends.”
Castillejo is one of at least 158 who have died in the tragic floods, dubbed Spain’s worst natural disaster in a century. It is feared the number will climb higher.
A Formula E event scheduled to take place in Valencia has also been postponed. “We have all been monitoring the tragic situation in Valencia, where flash floods have devastated the region and claimed many lives,” a statement from the sport’s governing body read. “Our thoughts are with everyone affected by these terrible events and we at Formula E are looking at how we can practically support the region during this awful time.
“Following consultation with local authorities, the FIA and our colleagues at Circuit Ricardo Tormo, we have decided not to proceed with our pre-season test in Valencia, planned for 4-7 November. While it may have been possible to go ahead logistically, it is important not to create any distraction or use valuable resources that are much better served supporting the local community.
“We have a number of Formula E team members who have been working on the ground in Valencia over the past week, and we want to personally thank them for everything they’ve done, and continue to do, to support the area.
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