Cody Gakpo and partner announce death of baby son during pregnancy as forward competes at World Cup

The announcement

On Saturday, Cody Gakpo and his partner Noa van der Bij shared the news on Instagram that their baby son Elijah Raphael Gakpo had died during pregnancy.

With broken hearts, we share the devastating news that our baby boy passed away during pregnancy.

Gakpo later posted his own message, asking for privacy.

World Cup context

Gakpo is currently with the Netherlands squad at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America. He has been a key player, starting all three group-stage matches, most recently a 3-1 win over Tunisia on Friday. He scored twice and added an assist in a 5-1 win over Sweden. The team topped Group F with seven points. His partner and their son Samuel had traveled to North America to support him.

1. May 30, 2026Couple announces they are expecting their second child.
2. Jun 13, 2026Netherlands play Japan in World Cup opener (2-2).
3. Jun 23, 2026Gakpo does not leave team bus at training, departs by car.
4. Jun 26, 2026Netherlands beat Tunisia 3-1 in final group match.
5. Jun 27, 2026Van der Bij and Gakpo announce baby's death on Instagram.
6. Jun 30, 2026Netherlands face Morocco in round of 32.

A private moment of grief

According to De Telegraaf, Gakpo did not exit the team bus at a training session four days before the announcement and departed by car. The couple described a moment of solace when they went to a church to light a candle, then walked to a playground where the only other child was also named Elijah.

There was only one other child there. His name was Elijah. There could not have been a more beautiful sign from God. He reminded us that our little boy is never far away.

Next steps

The Netherlands will face Morocco in the round of 32 on Tuesday. Gakpo is expected to retain his starting place for the knockout match. The couple has asked for privacy and space as they mourn.