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Roberto Cejas, Fan Who Carried Maradona in 1986 World Cup Celebration, Dies at 68

Family members in Santa Fe confirmed his death after a long illness.

Overview

  • Relatives identified by Argentine media, including sister-in-law Silvia Zabala, announced his passing, prompting tributes from fans and former players.
  • Cejas became part of football lore when he lifted Diego Maradona during Argentina’s victory lap at the Estadio Azteca after the 1986 final against West Germany.
  • He traveled to Mexico for the final without a ticket, slipped into the stadium, entered the field at the whistle, and carried Maradona as the captain signaled where to go.
  • He later reunited with Maradona on the 2014 World Cup program De Zurda and recalled asking for a boot, to which Maradona replied that they were for his mother.
  • He kept a low profile in Santa Fe working in commerce and staying involved in local sports, with most outlets reporting his age as 68, though one international report listed 62.