Bid Farewell: Concepción on Jorge Costa - "You were my finest football companionship"
Remembering Jorge Costa: A Legendary Porto Captain
Jorge Paulo Costa Almeida, fondly known as "Bicho" and "Tanque," passed away at the age of 53 on August 5, 2025, during a pre-season training session with FC Porto. The news of his sudden demise sent shockwaves through the world of football, with tributes pouring in from FC Porto, UEFA, and fellow professionals, including Cristiano Ronaldo.
Born on October 14, 1971, in Porto, Portugal, Costa began his illustrious career with the same club he would go on to represent with unparalleled distinction. He played more than 375 matches for Porto, leading the team as captain to numerous titles, including the 2003 UEFA Cup and the 2004 UEFA Champions League under José Mourinho.
Costa's achievements with Porto are nothing short of remarkable. He helped the club win eight Primeira Liga championships, five Portuguese Cups, and the 2004 European/South American Cup across a 15-year tenure. Internationally, he earned 50 caps for Portugal, contributing to winning the 1991 FIFA Under-20 World Cup and helping his country reach the semifinals at UEFA Euro 2000.
After retiring as a player in 2006, Costa transitioned into management and football administration. By 2024, he was serving as Porto's director of professional football, a role he filled until his passing.
Costa's legacy extends beyond his on-field exploits. He was a symbol of dedication, leadership, passion, and resilience within Portuguese football. His friendship with former teammate and coach Sérgio Conceição is a testament to the bond he shared with his fellow professionals.
In an interview with Tribuna, from Expresso, conducted in 2020, Costa revealed that Conceição is his best friend in football. The two grew up together, played together at FC Porto, Standard Liège, and the National Selection, and captained Porto during various periods. Costa dedicated himself to the dream of becoming a professional footballer alongside Conceição.
As FC Porto mourns the loss of one of its most iconic figures, the memory of Jorge Costa, the commanding defender and captain, will live on. His legacy as a leader, a winner, and a friend will continue to inspire generations of Porto fans and footballers alike.
Key Facts
- Full Name: Jorge Paulo Costa Almeida
- Born: October 14, 1971, Porto, Portugal
- Died: August 5, 2025 (aged 53)
- Position: Centre-back (Defender)
- Major Clubs: FC Porto (main), Charlton Athletic (loan), Standard Liège
- Club Achievements: 8× Primeira Liga titles, 1× UEFA Champions League (2004), 1× UEFA Cup (2003), 5× Portuguese Cups, 1× European/South American Cup
- National Team: 50 caps Portugal (1992–2002), 2 goals
- Post-playing Role: FC Porto football director (from 2024)
- Nicknames: "Bicho," "Tanque"
- Legacy: Revered Porto captain and club legend known for leadership and toughness.
Football was central to Jorge Costa's life, as he spent more than a decade shining as a centre-back for FC Porto, reaching an impressive collection of titles like the 2003 UEFA Cup, the 2004 UEFA Champions League, and eight Primeira Liga championships. Despite retiring from playing football, he remained connected to the sport as FC Porto's director of professional football until his untimely death in 2025.
