Cody Gakpo, 27, and his partner Noa van der Bij announced the loss of their unborn son, Elijah Raphael Gakpo, during pregnancy. Van der Bij shared the devastating news on social media on June 27 with a photo of their hands holding over a blanket and knitted hat, saying, "With broken hearts, we share the devastating news that our baby boy passed away during pregnancy. Thank you for your love and support. Elijah Raphael Gakpo. Forever loved. Forever our son." [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
Van der Bij described a symbolic moment they experienced when they went to church to light a candle and visited a nearby playground with their son Samuel. She said, "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." [1]
Gakpo is currently with the Netherlands national team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup camp in Kansas City. He has started all three group stage games and scored twice as the Dutch topped their group. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5] Gakpo publicly requested privacy and space during this difficult time in a statement on June 28: "This is an incredibly difficult time for our family. We kindly ask for our privacy and space. Thank you for your understanding." [1]
The Dutch Football Association confirmed it is providing support to the family and respects their privacy. A spokesperson said, "After discussing the situation with his partner, Cody has decided to remain with the team. We respect their privacy and will therefore not comment further on the situation." [2, 3, 4, 5]
The Netherlands are scheduled to play Morocco in the round of 32 World Cup match on June 29 in Mexico. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
