Valencia CF is devastated to confirm the passing of Fernando Martín, esteemed coach of Valencia CF Femenino B, and three of his young children following a tragic boat accident in Indonesia. The club extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and the entire Valencia CF community during this profoundly difficult time.
The incident occurred on Friday, December 26, 2025, when a tourist boat carrying 11 people capsized in extreme weather conditions in the Padar Island Strait near Labuan Bajo, in Indonesia's East Nusa Tenggara province. Fernando Martín, aged 44 and a former player in Spain's second-tier football leagues, was on a family vacation with his wife and four children.
Tragically, Martín and three of his children aged 9, 10, and 12, lost their lives in the accident. His wife and one daughter were among those rescued and are reported to be safe, along with four crew members and a tour guide.
Indonesian search and rescue authorities, including BASARNAS, conducted extensive efforts over the weekend to locate the missing individuals. The deaths were confirmed by local and Spanish authorities on Saturday, December 27, 2025, after initial reports listed them as missing.
"Valencia CF is deeply saddened by the passing of Fernando Martín, coach of Valencia CF Femenino B, and three of his children, in the tragic boat accident in Indonesia, as confirmed by local authorities," said a spokesperson for Valencia CF.
"Fernando was a dedicated coach, a passionate advocate for women's football, and a beloved member of our club family. His commitment to developing young talent and his positive spirit will be sorely missed. Our thoughts are with his surviving family as they navigate this unimaginable loss."
The club has received an outpouring of support from the global football community, including condolences from Real Madrid CF, which expressed its horror at the tragedy and extended sympathies to Valencia CF and the Martín family.
In honor of Fernando Martín and his children, Valencia CF will observe a moment of silence at all upcoming matches and has established a memorial fund to support youth football programs in his name. Further details on how to contribute will be shared in the coming days.