"A legend," "extraordinary." Celebrities react to Jorge Costa's death

The death of Jorge Costa , FC Porto's director of football, this Tuesday, August 5th, has left the sports world in shock. Social media has already seen a wave of reactions to the premature passing of the former footballer, who was only 53 years old and suffered cardiorespiratory arrest.

Eduardo Madeira made a point of sharing a photo of Costa with the following caption:

"Jorge Costa is a legend. He was a fierce and tough opponent. He defended his colors like no one else. But that's all he did: an opponent. In sports, there are no enemies. RIP (Rest in peace, in Portuguese)."

Rita Ferro Rodrigues posted a story expressing her admiration for the sports director's professional career.

"I always thought he was an extraordinary player. Extremely tough on the field but with exemplary dedication. Off the field, he had a serenity that fascinated me in contrast. My condolences to his family and friends, and especially to all the FC Porto fans who lost their 'pet'. Great Jorge Costa," wrote the former presenter.

© Instagram - Rita Ferro Rodrigues

Tailor Paulo Battista was shocked by the news and made a point of sharing on social media: "I'm in shock! We are nothing! I have no words!" , he said.

Sandra Madureira , wife of former Super Dragões leader Fernando Madureira, shared a story on her Instagram page with a black background with the former footballer's name, showing that she is in mourning.

© Instagram - Sandra Madureira

Actor Frederico Amaral lamented this loss, saying: "What a year this has been...eternal Dragon."

© Instagram - Frederico Amaral

Zulmira Garrido was not indifferent to Jorge Costa's death. " Jorge Costa passed away today. An inescapable figure in Portuguese football, a captain for generations, a man of strength and respect on and off the field. To his family, friends, and the entire FC Porto universe, I send my most sincere condolences. May he rest in peace."

© Instagram - Zulmira Garrido

Cândido Costa mourned the death of his teammate with whom he played at FC Porto.

"My captain... my force of nature. So strong, so brave and at the same time such a sweet person. You are FC Porto. Rest in peace, Bicho. I will miss you so much."

Writer Pedro Chagas Freitas praised Jorge Costa's performance on the field and offered his condolences to his family.

"I never saw anyone look at him without a certain instinctive respect. He was the image of someone who endures. He bit his tongue, swallowed his fear. He wasn't perfect; he was intense. Perfection doesn't command locker rooms, it doesn't lift trophies, it doesn't teach kids to grow up with courage.

Jorge was one of those who threw himself into the water. Today, he was the one who fell. May he rest in peace. A big hug to all his family and friends."

Katia Aveiro shared this "sad news" with her followers and sent "her condolences to the family."

"Football is poorer today," wrote Cristiano Ronaldo's sister.

© Instagram - Katia Aveiro

"What a sad year for those who love Futebol Clube do Porto. Rest in Peace," wrote Pinto da Costa's grandson, Nuno Pinto da Costa , on social media.

© Instagram - Nuno Pinto da Costa

This news also surprised RTP1 presenters Vanessa Oliveira and José Carlos Malato, who, at the beginning of the 'Volta 2025 Special' broadcast, dedicated a few words to the athlete. "He will forever be linked to Portuguese football and Portuguese sport, and he will forever remain in our hearts," Malato said, offering his condolences to the family.

Shortly after the news of Jorge Costa's death became public, Vanessa Oliveira and José Carlos Malato paid tribute to the former FC Porto player live on RTP.

Marina Gonçalves | 3:21 PM - 08/05/2025

The Dragons' football director suffered a cardiorespiratory arrest at the club's training center and was urgently transported to São João Hospital in Porto, where he later died.

Carlos Pereira Fernandes | 2:44 PM - 08/05/2025