Source:REUTERS/Pablo Morano
[Saba Sports News] According to Spanish media reports, football is not only a stage for competition but also amplifies voices of social care. At the Mestalla Stadium, fans in the north stand held a moving tribute for a child named Luca suffering from an “extremely rare” disease. Luca has IFAP-1 syndrome, a condition defined by the medical community as “extremely rare,” with only a very few diagnosed cases worldwide. He is the only confirmed case in Spain. Despite his illness, he remains a loyal Valencia fan. In the first round of La Liga, he met his idol Jose Gaya and received a signed jersey. Before the match against Getafe, fans in the north stand unveiled a banner with “Per Luca” (For Luca), featuring a heart formed by two hands and a pair of black glasses in the middle, symbolizing companionship and protection. The emotional gesture on the stands sparked applause and resonance throughout the stadium. This event highlights the social significance of football: it is not only about the result but also provides exposure for marginalized, little-known social issues. Through the actions of the north stand, Luca and his family have gained more attention and support, raising public awareness about this extremely rare disease.