A Tribute on the Pitch
Peñarol will honor Rubén Rada, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 83, with a special shirt during the clásico against Nacional this Sunday. The club confirmed the initiative through its social media channels, unveiling the design that players will wear for the domestic championship match.[S1][S2]
The shirt will feature an image of Rada printed on the chest, as confirmed by club president Ignacio Ruglio via a WhatsApp status. The match, corresponding to the fourth round of the Torneo Clausura of the Liga AUF Uruguay, will take place at the Campeón del Siglo stadium starting at 15:30 hours.[S3]
More Than a Shirt
The tribute extends beyond the shirt. Peñarol announced that all graphic material shared on social media during the weekend will also be a homage to Rada, who was known as the 'Negro' in the artistic world. The club's Representative Assembly expressed deep sorrow over his death, describing him as an essential figure in music, culture, and Uruguayan identity.[S1][S2]
During the assembly's session on Thursday, a minute of silence was held in Rada's memory, followed by applause. The club also recalled him with special affection as a recognized member and fan of Peñarol, an institution that was part of his identity.[S1][S2]
A Lifelong Fan
Rada was a fervent supporter of the Montevideo club throughout his life. He often recounted how his mother influenced his choice of team, despite his godfather Omar having taken him to see Nacional. In one anecdote, he described how his mother bought five complete Peñarol kits for a Three Kings' Day, leading him to switch his allegiance.[S3][S4]
His passion for Peñarol was well known, and the club itself bid him farewell as a standard-bearer of its colors. Rada, who died after a month of hospitalization due to pneumonia and its complications, had been active until recently, having launched a new musical cycle and planned shows with the band Tótem.[S3][S4]
