Netherlands forward Cody Gakpo will remain with his national team at the 2026 World Cup in Mexico despite the tragic passing of his unborn son, his partner Noa van der Bij announced on Saturday, June 27, 2026.
The couple was expecting their second child together this coming October.
Van der Bij shared the news on social media alongside a poignant photograph of the pair holding hands over a blanket and a knitted hat.
"With broken hearts, we share the devastating news that our baby boy passed away during pregnancy," wrote Noa van der Bij.
She expressed gratitude for the public support while honoring the memory of their child. "Thank you for your love and support.
Elijah Raphael Gakpo. Forever loved.
Forever our son," she wrote.
Van der Bij later detailed a comforting moment during a visit to a local church playground with their first son, Samuel.
"We went to church to light a candle. Afterward, we walked to the church playground with our son Samuel," she stated.
She noted the deeply personal sign they experienced during that walk. "There was only one other child there.
His name was Elijah. There could not have been a more beautiful sign from God.
He reminded us that our little boy is never far away," she stated.
Gakpo also released a statement regarding the tragedy, emphasizing the profound impact on his family.
"This is an incredibly difficult time for our family," said the 27-year-old forward.
He appealed for space as they navigate their grief. "We kindly ask for our privacy and space.
Thank you for your understanding," Gakpo said.
The Dutch football association expressed deep sympathy for the forward and his family during this private crisis.
"First of all, we sympathise with Cody and his family, Noa and their son Samuel. This is a very sad private situation," stated the KNVB.
The governing body confirmed that they had been informed of the circumstances and are offering continuous assistance.
"Naturally, we were already aware of this, and the KNVB is trying to support the family where possible.
Cody has decided, in consultation with his girlfriend, to remain with the group," stated the KNVB.
The association concluded by reaffirming their stance on withholding further updates out of respect for the family.
"We respect their privacy and therefore will not comment further on the situation, including the way in which we are trying to be there for them.
We will also not provide any further information on this in the near future.
If anything is shared about this, it is up to the family themselves," stated the KNVB.
Gakpo has been a vital part of the Dutch campaign, starting all three group games and scoring twice against Sweden to secure a spot in the knockout stage.
The Netherlands is scheduled to face Morocco in the round of 32 on Tuesday.
