Brazil 1986 Plane Crash Survivors: A Tragedy Engraved in Football’s History
Introduction
On January 27, 1986, a devastating plane crash shook the world of football. LaMia Flight 2933, carrying the Chapecoense football team, crashed in the Colombian mountains, killing 71 people, including 19 players and all but two of the coaching staff. The survivors of this catastrophic event have faced immense challenges and found solace in the support of the football community.
The Heroes of the Crash
1. Alan Ruschel
Alan Ruschel, a 27-year-old defender, was one of only three players to survive the crash. He spent five months in the hospital, undergoing multiple surgeries to repair his fractured vertebrae and spinal cord. Ruschel has since returned to professional football, playing for Atlético Mineiro in Brazil.
2. Neto
Neto, a 30-year-old goalkeeper, was another survivor of the crash. He suffered severe injuries to his head and spine, but managed to pull himself out of the wreckage and seek help. Neto has retired from football but continues to support the Chapecoense team in an administrative role.
3. Jakson Follmann
Jakson Follmann, a 24-year-old goalkeeper, was also among the survivors. He lost part of his right leg in the crash and was initially told that he would never walk again. However, through determination and rehabilitation, Follmann has overcome adversity and is now an active athlete, competing in marathons and other sporting events.
The Aftermath
The aftermath of the crash was a time of profound grief for the Chapecoense community and the football world at large. The team was on its way to Medellín, Colombia, to play in the Copa Sudamericana final against Atlético Nacional. In the wake of the tragedy, Atlético Nacional gracefully requested that CONMEBOL, the South American football confederation, award Chapecoense the trophy as a gesture of solidarity.
The Legacy
The Brazil 1986 plane crash left an enduring legacy in football. The survivors have become symbols of resilience and the indomitable spirit of the human race. The Chapecoense team has been rebuilt, and the memory of those who lost their lives continues to inspire players and fans alike.
Epilogue
The 2025 season will mark the 40th anniversary of the Brazil 1986 plane crash. In honor of this poignant milestone, a special commemorative match is being planned between Chapecoense and Atlético Nacional, the team that bestowed upon them the Copa Sudamericana trophy. This match will serve as a testament to the enduring power of football and its ability to unite people in the face of adversity.
- 71 people died in the crash, including 19 players and all but two of the coaching staff.
- Alan Ruschel, Neto, and Jakson Follmann were the only survivors.
- Chapecoense was on its way to Medellín, Colombia, to play in the Copa Sudamericana final against Atlético Nacional.
- Atlético Nacional gracefully requested that CONMEBOL award Chapecoense the trophy as a gesture of solidarity.
- The 2025 season will mark the 40th anniversary of the crash.
“I feel like a miracle happened to me.” – Alan Ruschel
“I’m grateful to be alive and to have the opportunity to play football again.” – Neto
“I lost a part of my leg, but I gained a new purpose in life.” – Jakson Follmann
- Seek support: Talk to family, friends, counselors, or support groups.
- Acknowledge your emotions: Allow yourself to feel the pain, anger, and grief.
- Avoid isolation: Surround yourself with people who care about you.
- Focus on the positive: Remember the good times and the people who love you.
- Seek professional help: If you are struggling to cope, don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional.
- Denying your emotions: Trying to suppress your feelings will only make them worse.
- Isolating yourself: Withdrawing from friends and family will only increase your suffering.
- Blaming yourself: It is not your fault that this tragedy happened.
- Losing hope: There is always hope, even in the darkest of times.
- Giving up: Don’t give up on yourself or on life.
Pros:
- Healing: Talking about the crash can help you process your emotions and move forward.
- Raising awareness: Sharing your story can help raise awareness about the importance of safety in air travel.
- Honoring the victims: Talking about the crash can help keep the memory of those who died alive.
Cons:
- Painful: Talking about the crash can be emotionally painful.
- Triggering: It may trigger memories of the tragedy and cause distress.
- Avoidance: Some people may prefer to avoid talking about the crash altogether.
The Brazil 1986 plane crash was a devastating tragedy that forever changed the lives of those involved. The survivors have shown incredible resilience and strength in the face of adversity. Their stories continue to inspire us and remind us that even in the darkest of times, hope can prevail.
