On Saturday, March 8, 2025, FC Barcelona’s La Liga fixture against CA Osasuna was abruptly postponed due to the sudden death of the club’s first-team doctor, Dr. Carles Miñarro García. The announcement came approximately 20 minutes before the scheduled 8:00 PM GMT kick-off at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, leaving fans and players in shock.
Official Statements and Condolences
FC Barcelona released an official statement expressing profound sorrow over Dr. Miñarro’s passing:
“FC Barcelona is deeply saddened to announce the passing of first-team doctor Carles Miñarro García this afternoon. As a result, the game between FC Barcelona and CA Osasuna has been postponed until a later date. The FC Barcelona Board of Directors and players wish to express their utmost condolences to the family and friends of the deceased and join them in mourning at such a difficult time.”
Osasuna’s president, Luis Sabalza, conveyed heartfelt sympathies, stating:hindustantimes.com
“We pass on our condolences to the family and also to Barcelona. We are so sorry; we know we could all be in this situation, so we put no barriers to the game being postponed. We understand that nobody should be playing a game thinking about someone that you have worked alongside for a long time is not there.”
Real Madrid also extended their condolences with an official announcement:
“Real Madrid C. F., its President, and its Board of Directors are deeply saddened by the death of Carles Miñarro García, doctor of F. C. Barcelona. Real Madrid would like to express its condolences and affection to all his family, his colleagues, F.C. Barcelona, and all his loved ones. May he rest in peace.”
Impact on Players and Staff
The sudden loss deeply affected FC Barcelona’s players and coaching staff. Club president Joan Laporta reflected on Dr. Miñarro’s contributions: fcbarcelona.com+1the-independent.com+1
“He was a man very much loved by everyone who passed away this afternoon at the team hotel. There was an overwhelming sense of sadness because he was loved by all of us. He traveled to every match to take care of the players, the coaching staff, everyone. He never said no to anyone. He was a great professional and a great doctor.”
In honor of Dr. Miñarro, a minute’s silence was observed before the team’s subsequent training session, attended by President Laporta, the first-team players, coaching staff, and personnel from the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper.
Rescheduling and Next Steps
La Liga has yet to announce a new date for the postponed match. The league, along with both clubs, will coordinate to determine a suitable time to reschedule the fixture. Fans are advised to monitor official communications from FC Barcelona and La Liga for updates.
Remembering Dr. Carles Miñarro García
Dr. Carles Miñarro García was a dedicated professional who played a pivotal role in ensuring the health and well-being of FC Barcelona’s players and staff. His sudden passing is a significant loss to the club and the broader football community. The collective mourning underscores the profound impact he had on those around him.
As FC Barcelona navigates this challenging period, the solidarity and support from the global football fraternity serve as a testament to the unity and compassion inherent in the sport.
