Tragedy has struck Venezuelan football as rising star Yimvert Berroterán, a promising 18-year-old player, lost his life during a series of devastating earthquakes. The young athlete’s untimely death comes just weeks after he showcased his talent on the international stage at the Under-17 World Cup in 2025. The Venezuelan Football Federation (FVF) confirmed his passing following the earthquakes, which registered magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5 and occurred overnight on June 27.
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The FVF released a heartfelt statement mourning Berroterán’s loss, stating, “Venezuelan football bids a heart-wrenching farewell to a young man who represented our country’s colours with pride, commitment and love.” The federation expressed that his passing would be deeply felt within the Vinotinto family and acknowledged the profound impact he had on those who shared time with him, both on and off the field.
Meanwhile, Berroterán’s agency, Agencia Secasports, expressed their grief in a poignant message, stating, “We wanted to see you grow and move forward together.” They highlighted the immense pride he brought to his hometown of La Guaira and reflected on the sorrow of losing someone so young. Their statement encapsulated the sense of loss felt throughout the country, noting that Venezuelan soccer and the broader nation are in mourning due to this tragedy.
At the time of his death, Berroterán was playing for the Universidad Central de Venezuela (UCV) football club, where he had recently made a significant contribution to the team’s Venezuela Cup triumph. UCV issued a statement that mourned the loss of their “great champion,” offering their heartfelt condolences to Berroterán’s family and loved ones. The club’s tribute aimed to provide support during this incredibly challenging time, emphasising the need to find solace in memories shared.
Social media has also been an outpouring of grief and admiration for Berroterán’s talents. UCV shared a video compilation celebrating his time with the club, captioning it with a message of remembrance: “We’re sure you’ll keep making people laugh in the most genuine and special way and you’ll keep scoring goals wherever you are. Rest in peace, Yimvert.”
Tributes from fans flooded in, with many remembering him as not only an exemplary player but also a kind-hearted individual. Comments reflected the sorrow and disbelief that the sporting community felt, with one user recalling a recent match he had narrated, celebrating Berroterán as a remarkable talent and an even better human being.
As the nation grapples with the catastrophic aftermath of the earthquakes, the loss of young lives has compounded the tragedy. As reported by Reuters, the death toll from the natural disaster has approached 1,500, leaving many families enduring heartbreak and longing for their loved ones. The magnitude of the calamity has not only devastated communities but has also left a profound mark on Venezuelan sports, particularly in the wake of such a bright prospect emerging in the football arena.
In light of this tragedy, the hope remains that Berroterán’s legacy will be honoured through continued support for the families affected by the earthquakes and a strengthened commitment to nurturing young talent in Venezuelan football. His story serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the need for compassion and resilience in the face of adversity.
As the country mourns, the spirit of Yimvert Berroterán will surely live on, inspiring future generations of athletes. The Venezuelan football community, alongside supporters and friends, will continue to remember the young player whose dreams were tragically cut short, ensuring that his contributions to the sport will not be forgotten.