Dutch international footballer Cody Gakpo and his partner Noa van der Bij have announced the tragic loss of their unborn son during pregnancy.
The couple shared the heartbreaking news on June 27, 2026, via social media, as reported by Dutch outlets fcupdate.
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They named their late son Elijah Raphael Gakpo, stating he would remain deeply loved.
The loss came just weeks after they joyfully announced on June 1 that they were expecting their second child.
Their first son, Samuël Seth, was born in early 2024.
Van der Bij expressed immense grief on Instagram, writing: "With intense sadness we let you know that we lost our little son during the pregnancy.
Thank you for all the love and support in this difficult time."
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The grieving family later visited a church to seek comfort and light a candle in memory of their child.
"With a broken heart we share the terrible news that our son passed away during the pregnancy," Van der Bij stated, emphasizing that their baby boy would always hold a permanent place in their family.
After visiting the church, Gakpo and Van der Bij spent time with their two-year-old son Samuël at a nearby playground connected to the parish.
There, they encountered the only other child present, who unexpectedly shared the same name as their deceased son.
"There could be no more beautiful sign from God," Van der Bij said, explaining that the encounter brought great comfort during their mourning.
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"He reminded us that our little boy is never far away," she added.
