Jesus de Miguel’s family receives more than €213,000 after Spanish football tragedy

The family of Jesus de Miguel has received more than €213,000 raised through a crowdfunding campaign launched after the Spanish footballer’s death.

In a statement published by the Spanish footballers’ union AFE, the family thanked everyone who contributed, saying the support had provided comfort during an ordeal that had left them devastated.

“We have now received the donations from the crowdfunding campaign launched by footballer Fran Sol, and we would like to express our deepest thanks and gratitude to everyone for this overwhelming outpouring of love and support,” the statement said.

“We were deeply moved to see so many people unite behind this initiative. Every kind gesture means a great deal to us, and we want you to know that we have received all these generous feelings with immense love.”

The family also thanked those who had sent messages of support.

“We are extremely grateful to everyone who contributed with their kind words. They may have seemed simple, but they carried all the meaning of gratitude for a family still living through the shock and trying to find some comfort in the solidarity of thousands.”

The campaign attracted substantial backing from inside and outside football. Cadiz president Christian Siptien donated €15,000, while Ceuta president Luhay Hamido contributed €3,500.

Players also made significant donations. Pedro Porro gave €3,500, Marc Bartra donated €3,000, and Alex Remiro and Borja Iglesias each contributed €2,500.

The tragedy occurred on Monday, 2 November, during a match between Tenerife and Andorra. With the score level at 2-2, Jesus de Miguel challenged for a high ball at the same moment Andorra goalkeeper Ono came off his line to intervene.

The goalkeeper, who represents Equatorial Guinea, jumped and collided heavily with the Spanish player. De Miguel suffered a cardiac arrest and received immediate treatment on the pitch as players and supporters looked on in shock. Ono was shown a straight red card.

After several hours of uncertainty, De Miguel’s death was announced the following day, turning the match into a lasting and painful memory.

Ono later spoke of the impact of the incident.

“These are the hardest days of my life. I find it extremely difficult to express my feelings and I cannot comprehend what happened. I feel enormous pain at losing Jesus, and I am thinking of him, his family and everyone who loved him,” he said.

“I know there are many matters that must be dealt with, and I will face whatever comes with respect. But right now, I cannot think about anything other than Jesus and the pain we are going through. Rest in peace, Jesus.”

The family’s receipt of the donations has brought the campaign to its intended conclusion, with the response showing the scale of support for De Miguel and those closest to him.