Remembering the Tragedy of Chapecoense

This November 28 marks one year since the tragedy of Chapecoense, the Brazilian team that suffered a plane crash on their way to Medellin for the Copa Sudamericana final against Atletico Nacional. Only three players survived: Alan Ruschel, Jackson Follmann, and Helio Zampier Neto.

Life After the Tragedy

After turning the page on this dark chapter and one year after being reborn, what has happened in the lives of these three players? What paths have they taken, on or off the field? We offer you all the details in the gallery accompanying this article.

Jackson Follmann's Perspective

In an interview with ESPN, Jackson Follmann, the former goalkeeper of the Eternal Champion, recalled the traumatic moment. "The hardest part was hearing my friends asking for help and knowing I couldn't do anything. It was very dark and I couldn't see anyone. I would wake up and pass out."

"At one point, I saw a flash of light and people shouting 'National Police'. When they arrived, some people who had been shouting before stopped," he said.

Helio Neto's Journey

Helio Neto, the central defender, was rescued at the last moment thanks to the persistence of a rescuer. He was trapped under the fuselage and due to the severity of his injuries, he was in intensive care, in an induced coma, and on artificial respiration. He had to undergo surgery on a lung, a knee, a wrist, and his skull. This experience made him reconsider not only his career but also his life.

"Football is my passion, but after the accident, it was very clear to me that there are other important things in life. Helping others feels really good. I had never planned to be attentive, to give a word of comfort," he said at the age of 32.

Allan Ruschel's Second Chance

Allan Ruschel was the first survivor to be rescued. He suffered a tibia compression and a fracture of the tenth vertebra. However, life gave him a second chance, and he is determined to make the most of it.