Referee Paul Ramdayal has died in hospital after falling ill during Feyenoord's under-13s match against FC Utrecht, the Eredivisie club confirmed on October 3.
Club confirms tragic loss
Ramdayal passed away on Saturday after becoming unwell during the youth fixture at Feyenoord's Varkenoord training complex. The club said they will remain in contact with the official's family and provide support where needed.
In a statement, Feyenoord wrote: "Feyenoord has learned with sadness of the passing of Paul Ramdayal. Earlier today, he became unwell in his role as referee during the Feyenoord U13 - FC Utrecht U13 match."
Familiar face at Varkenoord
The club added: "To the club's sorrow, he passed away later today in the hospital. Ramdayal was a familiar face at Varkenoord as a referee. He regularly officiated Feyenoord youth matches."
The statement continued: "The club wishes Ramdayal's family and loved ones, with whom Feyenoord has had and will continue to maintain extensive contact, much strength in coping with this loss."
Tributes pour in
Tributes and comments poured in for the official, with one comment on an article from 1908.nl reading: "Paul, what you have done for the Feyenoord youth will not be forgotten. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones."
Another user said: "Sad news. First and foremost for the man and his loved ones, but I imagine it must be a traumatic experience for the players and others present as well. I assume there will be a tribute to Paul Ramdayal at all upcoming home matches. Because volunteers like him are the heart / the engine of every club."
Match status unclear
With the Dutch top-flight on hold for the international break, Feyenoord gave their academy fixtures big billing, including Utrecht's visit to Rotterdam. A video posted to X showed the youngsters warming up before the match on a sunny day at Varkenoord.
It remains unclear whether the match was played or if the incident involving the referee saw the game abandoned, nor how the club will pay further tribute in the future. The tragic passing comes on the first day of the KNVB's Referee Week, which runs until October 11.
