Soccer is not just Costa Rica’s main sport, but also part of its identity and culture; soccer players become public figures quickly specially when they play for the main soccer teams Saprissa or Alajuela (La Liga).

The morning of this Sunday, November 20, one of these players passed away, one that had won the heart of many soccer fans as the former captain of Saprissa, number 16, ex-defender Gabriel Badilla “El Gladiador” (The Gladiator).

Badilla was taking part of the Lindora Run, a 10 km marathon in Santa Ana, when he collapsed, just two blocks from the finish line, at 6:48 a.m. ; the ambulance arrived quickly but despite their efforts he was declared dead at 7:18 a.m. Although the cause of death is still not confirmed it all points to a cardiac arrest.

Gabriel Badilla was 32 years old, he had undergone open heart surgery in 2013 due to a benign tumor, the operation was a success and he even went back to play soccer. He retired from professional soccer June 26th of 2016 and was part of the marketing department of Saprissa.

The former soccer star was part of Costa Rica’s Male National Soccer Team in World Cup Germany 2006 and had his professional debut with Saprissa in 2001. He was known for his defending abilities, leading qualities and also because of his good looks, which made him popular among female fans.

He leaves behind two young daughters.

Rest in peace captain.