The DANA that hit Valencia a few weeks ago left the community in grief after causing the loss of more than 220 lives and the disappearance of more than a dozen people. The devastating floods affected not only infrastructure and material goods, but also irreplaceable memories of those who have lost everything.
Among those affected is Esther Romero, a former Barcelona and Valencia women’s football player, who won several Queen’s Cups during her career. Trophies representing years of dedication and achievements were destroyed in her home, another symbol of the tragedy that the DANA has left in its wake.
CALL TO THE RFEF FROM THE SOCIAL NETWORKS
Carla Martínez, Esther Romero’s partner, took her petition to ‘X’ (formerly Twitter), asking for help from the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) so that the former player can recover her trophies. “We have been affected by the Valencia DANA and she has lost her Copa de la Reina trophies won with @FCBfemeni,” she wrote alongside heartbreaking images showing the destroyed trophies and a ball covered in mud.
In addition, Carla Martinez mentioned that the Catalan Football Federation’s trophies, including a Catalan Cup, had also been washed away by the floods, leaving the former player without the physical symbols of her sporting achievements.
SOLIDARITY RESPONSE FROM THE RFEF
Hours after the news was reported by various media outlets, the RFEF responded with a message full of solidarity and hope. “From the @rfef we are working to recover the trophies of the #CopaDeLaReina of @Romero6Esther. Surely we will have good news soon,” they assured through their official ‘X’ account.
The RFEF’s gesture has generated a great deal of support on social networks, where fans and sports figures have expressed their support for Esther Romero and her partner, highlighting the importance of solidarity in times of tragedy.
A CALL FOR REMEMBRANCE AND UNITY
Esther Romero’s story highlights the emotional impact that material losses have on those facing natural disasters. Beyond property, it is about memories and moments that are part of people’s identity.
In a context of collective grief, the RFEF’s response and social support reflect how sport can be a tool for unity and hope. While awaiting the resolution of this initiative, the case of Esther Romero remains a reminder of the power of soccer as a symbol of resilience and community.
