Overview
- Academia Alemana Popayán confirmed the death of the Colombian teenager in a Sunday crash while he was on vacation near Cali.
- Reports said he was scheduled to travel to the United States this week to complete a move to Major League Soccer’s New York Red Bulls.
- The Red Bulls issued condolences to his family, friends, and teammates following news of his death.
- Authorities say the crash involved a tanker truck and multiple vehicles, and an investigation remains underway.
- Valencia had impressed at the U-16 Red Bulls Cup and was seen as a candidate for Colombia’s U-17 setup for the 2026 South American Championship.