Valencia coach and his three kids dead in boat crash in Indonesia
The beautiful game is in mourning after the devastating news that Valencia Women's B team coach, Fernando Martin, and three of his kids have tragically died in a boat accident in Indonesia. The club confirmed the gut-wrenching news on Saturday.
Martin and his family were on a tourist boat when disaster struck
Martin, along with his family, were on a tourist boat off the coast of Indonesia when the vessel was smashed by 10ft waves. Reports say that there were 11 people on board when the ferry sank in the Padar Island Strait on Friday.
Heartbreakingly, the Valencia coach and his three children, aged nine, 10 and 12, were declared missing and later confirmed dead. Martin's wife and seven-year-old daughter were rescued, along with four of the boat's crew members and a tour guide.
Rescuers are still searching for the bodies of those missing.
Valencia pays tribute to Martin
In a statement, the club said: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Fernando Martín, coach of Valencia CF Femenino B, and three of his children in a tragic boating accident in Indonesia, as confirmed by local authorities.
"At this extremely difficult time, the Club would like to express its deepest condolences and full support to his family, friends and colleagues at Valencia CF, Valencia CF Femenino and the VCF Academy."
Real Madrid and Spanish Football Federation send condolences
Spanish giants Real Madrid posted a tribute to Martin and his family after the news was confirmed by Valencia. They wrote: "Real Madrid C. F., its president and Board of Directors are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Fernando Martín, Valencia C. F. Women's B coach, and three of his children, in the tragic boat accident in Indonesia.
"Real Madrid wishes to express its horror, and extends its condolences and deepest affection to his wife, Andrea, and his daughter, Mar, at this incredibly difficult time.
"Likewise, we send our condolences to all of his family and loved ones, and the whole Valencia family. Fernando Martín has passed away at 44 years of age, alongside his children, aged 12, 10 and 9. May they rest in peace."
The Spanish Football Federation also released a statement, writing: "The RFEF joins in the grief over the loss of Fernando Martín, coach of Valencia CF women's B team, and three of his children in the shipwreck of a tourist boat in Indonesia.
"We wish to express our most sincere condolences to his family and friends. R.I.P."
