Sudden Death of Jorge Costa Shocks the Football Community

In a heartbreaking moment that shook Portuguese football, FC Porto announced on Monday the sudden death of one of its all-time legends, former player and current Director of Football Jorge Costa, at the age of 53, after suffering a severe and unexpected heart attack while at the team’s training center in Olival.

Sudden Illness Ends the Life of a Defensive Icon

According to the club's official statement, Costa began to feel unwell shortly after finishing a scheduled media interview at the training facility. Just minutes later, he lost consciousness completely, prompting the immediate intervention of the medical team on site. He was rushed to São João Hospital in Porto, but despite the urgent efforts made by medical staff, he tragically passed away, leaving behind a wave of grief among teammates, staff, and supporters.

Official Club Statement Mourns a True Legend

In an emotional public message, FC Porto said:

“With broken hearts, FC Porto sends its deepest condolences to the family of Jorge Costa, a true legend of our club and our current Director of Football. His passing represents a loss beyond words. The entire Porto family is mourning this unforgettable figure.”

A Remarkable Career of Loyalty and Achievement

Jorge Costa was far more than a player—he was a leader, a symbol of strength, and a cornerstone of Porto’s golden generation. Known for his commanding presence and tactical discipline, Costa made over 400 official appearances for the club and helped lead it to a number of historic achievements, including:

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  UEFA Champions League title in 2004

  
  


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  UEFA Cup

  
  


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  8 Primeira Liga titles

  
  


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  5 Portuguese Cup titles

  
  


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  6 Portuguese Super Cup trophies

  
  


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  Intercontinental Cup

  
  

These trophies were a testament to an extraordinary career that earned him a permanent place in Porto’s history.

From the Pitch to the Office: A Life of Dedication

After retiring from professional football, Costa transitioned into coaching, managing clubs both in Portugal and abroad. In 2024, he returned to his beloved Porto, taking on the role of Director of Football, demonstrating once again his loyalty and deep commitment to the club that shaped his career. His presence behind the scenes was seen as a stabilizing force for the team.

Widespread Mourning Across the Sporting World

News of Costa’s passing quickly spread across the football world, triggering an outpouring of grief from fans, players, and clubs alike. Rival clubs, including Benfica and Sporting Lisbon, issued heartfelt condolences, expressing solidarity with FC Porto and Costa’s family. Social media was flooded with messages of sympathy, reflecting the respect he commanded across all levels of the game.

The President of Portugal Expresses His Sorrow

The impact of Costa’s death reached the highest levels of government. Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa issued an official statement, describing Costa as “a prominent sports figure who helped raise Portugal’s name on the European stage,” adding that his memory will remain alive in the hearts of all who knew him or followed his career.

"The Beast" Who Led with Strength and Heart

Jorge Costa was affectionately known as “The Beast” and “The Tank”, nicknames that reflected his fearless defending and relentless physicality. His leadership was instrumental during one of Porto’s most successful eras—especially under the legendary coach José Mourinho, during which the club conquered Europe and lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy in 2004. Costa’s contribution during this golden period is etched in football history.

A Renewed Tragedy After the Loss of Diogo Jota

What makes this moment even more painful for the Porto community is that it follows just weeks after the tragic death of former Porto and Liverpool star Diogo Jota, who lost his life in a fatal car accident alongside his brother. The close succession of these two tragic losses has deepened the grief felt within the club and among its supporters, who are mourning not just great players, but cherished human beings who gave so much to the game.