Published Sep 21, 2026 | 4:56 PM ⚊ Updated Sep 21, 2026 | 5:01 PM
Rijohn Jose. (Courtesy: Calicut FC)
Footballer Rijohn Jose, 29, a defender who was part of Calicut FC’s title-winning squad in the inaugural Super League Kerala season, died in a road accident at the Gandhi Road Flyover in Kozhikode on Sunday night.
A native of Olur in Thrissur, Rijohn was among the players preparing for the upcoming Super League Kerala season when the accident occurred.
The fatal accident occurred amid heavy rain as another motorcycle, whose rider lost control, collided with the bike the footballers were riding.
Rijohn, who sustained severe chest injuries in the crash, was immediately rushed to Aster MIMS Hospital but could not be saved.
His death has cast a pall of gloom over Keralam’s football fraternity.
Another Calicut FC player, Gani Ahammed Nigam, who was travelling with Rijohn at the time, was also injured in the accident and is undergoing treatment.
The club said Gani did not sustain serious injuries.
Rijohn was a key member of the Calicut FC side that lifted the inaugural Super League Kerala trophy in 2024.
Known for his defensive skills, he had also represented several clubs during his career, including Sreebhumi FC, George Telegraph SC, FC Deccan and Forca Kochi FC. Calicut FC had once dubbed him ‘The Interceptor’, the man whom nothing could get past.
His death came as a shock to the football community, with tributes pouring in for the young player whose career was cut short just as he was preparing for another season at the highest level of state football.
Chief Minister VD Satheesan condoled Rijohn’s death, recalling his contribution to Calicut FC’s historic title triumph and to Keralam’s football scene.
He expressed solidarity with Rijohn’s family, friends and fellow players and prayed for the speedy recovery of Gani Ahammed Nigam.
A public viewing of his body was organised at the EMS Corporation Stadium in Calicut from 4 pm to 5 pm by Calicut FC to allow fans to pay their respects and “spend a moment with Rijohn”.
After the public homage, his mortal remains will be brought to his native place, Olloor in Thrissur. The cremation will take place on Tuesday at 11 am.
“We would give anything for one more conversation, one more laugh, one more day with you, Rijohn,” Calicut FC posted while remembering their star.
“Rest in peace. Rest in our hearts,” they added.
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(With inputs from Dileep V Kumar.)
