Former Colombia captain and Real Madrid midfielder Freddy Rincon has died aged 55

Former Colombia captain Freddy Rincon has died, the country’s football federation announced.

The 55-year-old ex-Real Madrid midfielder was hospitalized after a car crash on Monday and died on Wednesday.

“The Football Federation of Colombia deeply regrets the passing of Freddy Eusebio Rincon Valencia and sends a message of support and encouragement to his family, friends and loved ones at this difficult time,” the CFF website said in a statement.

“This represents a great loss to his family and friends, and it is also an unfortunate departure for our sport, where we will miss him and remember him with great affection, appreciation, respect and admiration.

“We send strength, support and condolences to his family in the hope that they can bear this sad and painful loss.”

Rincon moved to Europe after impressing at Brazilian club Palmeiras earlier in his career.

He played for Napoli before joining Real Madrid and becoming the first Colombian to sign for the Spanish giants.

Two years later, Rincon returned to Palmeiras on loan before moving to Corinthians, where he helped them win the world championship in 2000.

He was capped 84 times for Colombia, scoring 17 goals and playing at World Cups in 1990, 1994 and 1998.