Istanbulspor defender Baran Alp Vardar dies aged 20 after cancer battle
Istanbulspor defender Baran Alp Vardar has died at the age of 20 following a long battle with cancer, the Turkish club has announced.
The highly-rated centre-back came through the academy system at the Istanbul-based side.
He made his top-flight debut earlier this year, registering three appearances for the first team during the 2023-24 campaign.
However, the young prospect was forced to put his professional career on hold to undergo extensive medical treatment for his illness.
‘Profound grief over the loss’
The TFF First League club confirmed the tragic news on Sunday via a social media statement.
We are experiencing profound grief over the loss of our footballer, our dear Baran Alp Vardar, who has been undergoing cancer treatment for some time.
Baran Alp, with his character, loyalty to his team-mates and cheerful smile, will always be remembered.
Club officials added that his departure at such a young age had deeply wounded everyone associated with the team.
A funeral service for the former academy graduate will take place at the Beylikduzu Mevlana Mosque on Sunday afternoon.
Turkish football unites in mourning
Tributes have poured in from across the sporting community following the devastating announcement.
Super Lig giants Galatasaray expressed their sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to the player’s family.
May Allah grant mercy to the deceased; we extend our condolences to his family, loved ones, and the Istanbulspor community.
Rivals Fenerbahce released a similar statement echoing those sentiments and wishing the young defender peace.
A challenging domestic campaign
The tragic loss comes during a difficult season on the pitch for the deceased defender’s club.
They currently sit 14th in Turkey’s second tier, having accumulated 39 points from 31 matches.
The squad must now begin the heartbreaking process of navigating the remainder of their schedule while coming to terms with the death of their team-mate.
