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.
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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.
