Referee Paul Ramdayal dies after collapsing during Feyenoord under-13s match

Dutch referee Paul Ramdayal died in hospital on Saturday, October 3, after collapsing while officiating a Feyenoord under-13s match against FC Utrecht at the club’s Varkenoord training complex in Rotterdam. He was a familiar figure at the academy ground, regularly taking charge of Feyenoord youth fixtures.

Feyenoord confirmed the news in an official statement, expressing deep sorrow at the loss. “Feyenoord has learned with sadness of the passing of Paul Ramdayal,” the club wrote. “Earlier today, he became unwell in his role as referee during the Feyenoord U13 – FC Utrecht U13 match. 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 club added that it had been in contact with Ramdayal’s family and would continue to offer support. “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 poured in from supporters and those connected to the club. One message posted in response to the news read: “Paul, what you have done for the Feyenoord youth will not be forgotten. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.” Another observer noted the likely impact on the young players present: “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.”

It remains unclear whether the match was completed or abandoned following the incident.

The tragedy occurred on the opening day of the KNVB’s Referee Week, an annual initiative run by the Dutch FA to celebrate the contribution of match officials at all levels of the game. The week, which runs until October 11, is intended to highlight the role of volunteer referees — the very community Ramdayal represented throughout his time at Varkenoord.