Tributes paid as Valencia coach and three of his children pass away in tragic boating accident

A Valencia coach and three of his children have tragically passed away in a boating accident in Indonesia.

The club confirmed the terrible news that Women’s B team coach, Fernando Martin, had died on Saturday.

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Martin and his family were on board a tourist boat off the coast of Indonesia when it was struck by 10ft waves.

The ferry is reported to have had 11 people on board at the time it sank in the Padar Island Strait on Friday.

Tragically, the Valencia coach and his children, aged nine, 10 and 12, were declared missing and later dead.

Martin’s wife and seven-year-old daughter were rescued.

Four of the boat’s crew members and a tour guide were also saved from the dangerous waters.

Rescuers are still searching for the bodies of those missing.

In a statement, Valencia said: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Fernando Martín, coach of Valencia CF Femenino B, and three of his children in a tragic boating accident in Indonesia, as confirmed by local authorities.

“At this extremely difficult time, the Club would like to express its deepest condolences and full support to his family, friends and colleagues at Valencia CF, Valencia CF Femenino and the VCF Academy.”

Paying tribute

Spanish giants Real Madrid posted a tribute to Martin and his family after the news was confirmed by Valencia.

They wrote: “Real Madrid C. F., its president and Board of Directors are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Fernando Martín, Valencia C. F. Women’s B coach, and three of his children, in the tragic boat accident in Indonesia.

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“Real Madrid wishes to express its horror, and extends its condolences and deepest affection to his wife, Andrea, and his daughter, Mar, at this incredibly difficult time.

“Likewise, we send our condolences to all of his family and loved ones, and the whole Valencia family. Fernando Martín has passed away at 44 years of age, alongside his children, aged 12, 10 and 9.

“May they rest in peace.”

The Spanish Football Federation released a statement on the tragic loss of the Valencia coach and his children too, writing: “The RFEF joins in the grief over the loss of Fernando Martín, coach of Valencia CF women’s B team, and three of his children in the shipwreck of a tourist boat in Indonesia.

“We wish to express our most sincere condolences to his family and friends.

“R.I.P.”