Bartina Koeman dies at 65 after battle with breast cancer

Bartina Koeman, the wife of former Netherlands and FC Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman, has passed away at the age of 65 following a long battle with breast cancer. The news was shared by Ronald Koeman via social media, where he expressed profound sadness and pride in his wife’s strength.

Bartina had been battling cancer since her initial diagnosis in 2010. Despite periods of remission, the disease returned in 2018 and became chronic in 2023. Her health struggles significantly impacted Ronald Koeman’s professional life; he notably stepped down from his role as the Netherlands national team coach following the team's exit from the World Cup to be closer to her during her treatment.

The football community has responded with widespread condolences. Both FC Barcelona and the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) issued statements offering support and sympathy to the Koeman family. The couple had been married since 1985 and had three children: Tim, Ronald Jr., and Debbie.