Jorge Bolano dead at 47: Gianluigi Buffon leads tributes after former World Cup footballer collapsed at a party and died

The football world is in mourning following the passing of former Colombia international Jorge Bolano at the age of 47.

Bolano’s death was confirmed on Sunday by local media. He died in the city of Cututa – which is located 262 miles away from the country’s capital of Bogota.

According to Bogota newspaper El Tiempo, the former Parma, Modena, Lecce and Sampdoria midfielder suffered a heart attack while attending a relative’s birthday party.

He was rushed to a nearby clinic but later passed.

Tributes in his homeland and abroad have poured in for Bolano following the news.

In a statement released, the Colombian Football Federation wrote: ‘With deep sorrow, we express our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Jorge Eladio Bolano Correa, former Colombian Men’s National Team player, professional soccer player, and coach, who passed away this Sunday, April 6, in the city of Cucuta.

Bolano represented Colombia 36 times – with his football federation among the tributes

‘Bolano’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew and admired him. His legacy as a footballer and coach will live on in the memory of Colombian sport.

‘The FCF, in communion with the Executive Committee, headed by President Ramon Jesurun, offers our prayers for his eternal rest and sends strength to his family in this time of grief.’

Bolano won 36 caps for Colombia and was part of their 1998 World Cup squad but spent the majority of his career playing abroad in Italy.

He spent eight years at Parma, two of which saw loan spells at Sampdoria and Leece, and helped the club win the 2002 Coppa Italia – their last major honour to date.

His former team-mate Gianluigi Buffon hailed him as an ‘unforgettable friend and team-mate’.

‘Jorge was an unforgettable friend and team-mate, a constant in a locker room of extraordinary champions,’ his statement read.

‘We played and won together in the golden years of a great Parma.

‘On the pitch he fought without sparing himself and, off the pitch, I fondly remember his kindness and humanity that made him an example for everyone.

Gianluigi Buffon hailed his ex-Parma team-mate as an ‘unforgettable friend and team-mate’

‘We will always carry you with us, rest in peace, my friend.’

Parma also paid tribute to their former midfielder on social media.

‘Today, the whole of Parma Calcio extends condolences to the family of Jorge Bolano, who has passed away at 47-years-old, leaving an irreplaceable void. 

‘Goodbye, Jorge. Forever Gialloblu,’ the Serie A side said.