Alexia Putellas has confirmed she and her family are safe after devastating earthquakes struck Venezuela, killing at least 164 and injuring hundreds. The Spain midfielder was in Caracas for Eleven Foundation and Liga Monumental activities as rescue teams continued searching collapsed buildings and authorities declared a national state of emergency.
Putellas confirms safety amid deadly Venezuela earthquakes
Alexia Putellas reassured followers that she and her family are safe after two powerful tremors rocked Venezuela. The 32-year-old ex-Barcelona midfielder posted a brief message from Caracas, thanking well-wishers and sending strength to those affected.
What happened: magnitude, damage and disruption
Two strong earthquakes struck in quick succession near Yumare, west of Caracas, with magnitudes recorded at 7.2 and 7.5. The shocks generated red-alert warnings for expected casualties and economic losses and were felt across large parts of the country.
Caracas and the neighbouring state of La Guaira reported severe damage: collapsed buildings, interrupted power and communications, and transport systems suspended. Major infrastructure including the principal international airport and metro services were temporarily closed. Authorities declared a state of emergency and mobilised health and rescue services amid ongoing search-and-rescue operations.
Putellas in Caracas: Eleven Foundation and Liga Monumental
Putellas had travelled to Caracas to support activities linked to her Eleven Foundation and to participate in the Liga Monumental, a nine-a-side amateur tournament that mixes football with entertainment. Organisers had planned a collaboration between the tournament and the foundation; those plans are now overshadowed by the humanitarian crisis.
Her presence underlines how elite players increasingly combine sporting profile with charitable projects. In this case, Putellas’ visit shifted from promotion and outreach to immediate concern for victims and local communities.
Career context: leaving Barcelona and international stature
Putellas left Barcelona last month after a 14-year spell in which she made 507 appearances and scored a club-record 233 goals. She helped Barcelona to multiple domestic and continental titles, including four Women’s Champions League trophies, and won the Ballon d’Or Feminin in 2021 and 2022. She was also part of Spain’s 2023 Women’s World Cup-winning squad.
The midfielder has not yet announced her next club, and the timing of this crisis will complicate any immediate plans or public appearances.
Why this matters for football and humanitarian response
Putellas’ safety statement has amplified global attention on the disaster — a reminder of the platform top players hold beyond the pitch. Her involvement with the Eleven Foundation could be a channel for relief efforts, though any concrete engagement should respect local needs and authorities.
For the sport, the incident is a sobering interruption: a high-profile visit turned into an urgent human story, and a reminder that player movements and charitable programmes intersect with unpredictable geopolitical and natural events.
What to watch next
Authorities’ casualty and damage reports will evolve as rescue teams continue work. Watch for updates on infrastructure reopening and for any statements about Putellas’ planned engagements or relief initiatives linked to her foundation.
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For clubs and national teams, the episode underlines the need for contingency planning when players travel for off-field commitments.
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