Millonarios Player Santiago Castrillón Dies at 18

Millonarios confirmed this Sunday the death of the player Santiago Castrillón, 18, who fainted during a match against Santa Fe in the National Under-20 Tournament on the Xcoli fields.

Tragic Loss for Colombian Football

The promising young footballer passed away despite receiving immediate medical attention. He was initially transferred to Clínica la Colina and subsequently to the Cardioinfantil Foundation, but unfortunately, could not be saved.

Millonarios FC Statement

“Despite medical efforts, Santiago was unable to recover and died this Sunday in the company of his family, colleagues and friends,”

Millonarios FC

The club expressed profound grief, stating, “Today football stops. The blue heart is broken. Today pain invades us, fills us with helplessness, and sadness. With deep feeling we say goodbye to our number 10, our partner, our friend.”

Millonarios further added, “Santiago not only played football. He lived it, he felt it, he shared it with a smile that is tattooed on all of us today. We raise our prayers for his soul. To his family and loved ones, a message of strength at this moment impossible to understand. Santiago, our beloved companion, rest in peace.”

Who Was Santiago Castrillón?

Castrillón, a midfielder from Bucaramanga, born on September 7, 2007, had not yet made his professional debut. He was a member of the Millonarios Under-20 squad and had been named to the bench for three League games in 2025.

He was also registered on the Millonarios roster for the Copa Sudamericana, wearing jersey number 70.

Tributes from the Football Community

Millonarios coach Fabián Bustos dedicated Saturday’s 4-1 victory against Once Caldas to Castrillón, offering prayers for his recovery. “I want to send a message to one of our players who had a particularly important health issue in the game, to Santiago Castrillón, he is a boy who trains with us, who is there every week and may God bless him and continue to recover; he strengthens his family,” Bustos said.

Players from the Millonarios women’s team also paid tribute. Isabela Sánchez, who scored in a 1-1 draw against Internacional de Palmira, displayed Castrillón’s number 10 jersey in a gesture of respect.

FAQ

What happened to Santiago Castrillón?

Santiago Castrillón, an 18-year-old Millonarios player, tragically passed away after collapsing during a match against Santa Fe.

What team did Santiago Castrillón play for?

Santiago Castrillón played for Millonarios FC, specifically their Under-20 team.

Where was Santiago Castrillón from?

Santiago Castrillón was from Bucaramanga.