Ex-Valencia star, 28, killed in horror Spain floods

An ex-Valencia football player has tragically been killed in the Spanish floods that have killed over 150 people.

Jose Castillejo, 28, died following the devastating flash floods in the city.

In a statement, Valencia football club, who Jose played for in the acadmedy, said: "Valencia CF mourn the passing of José Castillejo, casualty of the flash floodings. José Castillejo came up through the [club's] youth system up to U18 level and played for others teams in the region."

The club wasn't alone in its tribute. Eldense, another team for which Castillejo played, said, "Terrible news coming from the catastrophic DANA," adding, "CD Eldense deeply regrets the death at the age of 28 of José Castillejo, former blue-and-red player in the 2015/2016 season. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and friends. Rest in peace."

Castillejo, who was a midfielder, had stints with several clubs including Bunol, Recambios Colon, Roda, Torre Levante, and Villamarxant following his time in Valencia's academy structure.

Roda also bid farewell with heartfelt words: "We regret to announce the death of Jose Castillejo, who defended our shirt during the 18/19 season," their statement read. "Rest in peace, Jose. We will always remember you. We send our love to your family and friends."

In solidarity with the affected community, Valencia CF shared footage showing players like Maximiliano Caufriez, Jesus Vazquez, and Thierry Rendall contributing to the relief efforts, gathering essentials at the Mestalla Stadium, which has become a haven for locals in the wake of the city's tragedy, reports the Mirror.

Spain is grappling with what has been described as its worst natural disaster in a century, following catastrophic flash floods that have claimed at least 158 lives, with concerns the death toll may rise further.

While Spain’s Mediterranean coast is accustomed to autumn storms causing flooding, this was the most severe flash flood in recent memory. Scientists attribute it to climate change, which is also responsible for increasingly high temperatures and droughts in Spain and the warming of the Mediterranean Sea.

The disaster has disrupted major sporting events, leading to the postponement of Valencia's Copa del Rey match against Paria Escuela and a Formula E event set for Valencia.

A statement from Formula E's governing body expressed deep concern: "We have all been monitoring the tragic situation in Valencia, where flash floods have devastated the region and claimed many lives," it read. "Our thoughts are with everyone affected by these terrible events and we at Formula E are looking at how we can practically support the region during this awful time."

The statement continued, detailing the decision to cancel the upcoming pre-season test: "Following consultation with local authorities, the FIA and our colleagues at Circuit Ricardo Tormo, we have decided not to proceed with our pre-season test in Valencia, planned for 4-7 November. While it may have been possible to go ahead logistically, it is important not to create any distraction or use valuable resources that are much better served supporting the local community.

"We have a number of Formula E team members who have been working on the ground in Valencia over the past week, and we want to personally thank them for everything they've done, and continue to do, to support the area."