Spanish football and the RFEF are in mourning following the death of David García de la Loma, a referee in the Second Federation. He passed away at the age of 31 after succumbing to cancer, a disease that had previously led to the amputation of his arm.
David García de la Loma was an example of overcoming adversity. Despite having his right arm amputated in 2021 due to synovial sarcoma, he was determined to continue refereeing. He described his fight against cancer as overcoming fear and uncertainty to achieve his goal of officiating in the category he had worked so hard for. Sadly, despite his courageous battle, he passed away on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at the age of 31.
The Royal Spanish Football Federation expressed their condolences to his family and friends, stating: “The RFEF wishes to express its deepest condolences to the family and friends of David García de la Loma, a Second Federation referee who passed away after a long illness. David was an example of struggle, perseverance, and love for refereeing.” The organization also announced that all referees in all categories of Spanish football would wear a black armband this week in his honor.
Rest in peace.