Calicut FC Defender Rijohn Jose Dies in Bike Accident Ahead of Super League Kerala 2026
Calicut FC defender Rijohn Jose, 29, has tragically passed away following a fatal motorcycle collision on Sunday night, September 20, 2026, in Kozhikode, just days before the Super League Kerala season.
The Kerala football community is mourning the untimely demise of Calicut FC defender Rijohn Jose, who died at the age of 29 in a bike collision on Sunday night in Kozhikode. The tragic incident, which also left his teammate Gani Ahammed Nigam injured, occurred as Calicut FC was deep in preparations for the upcoming Super League Kerala (SLK) season, set to kick off on September 25, 2026. Mohun Bagan Super Giant Clinch 31st Calcutta Football League Title; Mariners Beat Mohammedan Sporting 3-2 To End 8-Year Wait.
Calicut FC Defender Rijohn Jose Dies in Kozhikode Bike Crash
Super League Kerala is deeply saddened by the passing of Rijohn Jose of Calicut FC. Our heartfelt condolences to his family, his teammates, Calicut FC, and everyone who knew him.
കാലിക്കറ്റ് എഫ്സിയുടെ റിജോൺ ജോസിന്റെ വിയോഗത്തിൽ സൂപ്പർ ലീഗ് കേരള അഗാധമായി ദുഃഖിക്കുന്നു.… pic.twitter.com/1AFJrprSot
— Super League Kerala (@slk_kerala) September 21, 2026
According to police reports, the accident took place around 10:40 PM IST on Sunday, September 20, 2026, on the Gandhi Road flyover near Christian College in Kozhikode. Rijohn and Nigam were travelling on one motorcycle when it collided with another two-wheeler approaching from the opposite direction. Both footballers were thrown onto the road, with Rijohn suffering critical injuries.
Immediate Aftermath and Medical Attention
The injured players were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, Rijohn Jose was declared dead in the early hours of Monday, September 21, 2026. His teammate, Gani Ahammed Nigam, a known Santosh Trophy player, sustained injuries but is currently reported to be in stable condition and undergoing treatment.
Rijohn Jose's Football Journey
A native of Ollur in Thrissur, Rijohn Jose was a committed defender who had made significant contributions to Kerala football. Before joining Calicut FC, he had played for Forca Kochi in the previous edition of the Super League Kerala. His career also included stints with clubs such as FC Deccan, Wayanad United, and George Telegraph.
His passing comes as a profound shock to his teammates and the broader football fraternity, especially with the new SLK season just days away. Calicut FC had recently announced its squad and begun training at JDT in Kozhikode in anticipation of the tournament. ISL 2026-27: Indian Super League Season 13 Kicks Off on October 10 as Home-and-Away Format Returns.
Police Investigation and Last Rites
Following a complaint lodged by the manager of Calicut FC, the Nadakkavu police have registered a case against the rider of the other motorcycle involved in the collision. Investigations into the exact circumstances of the accident are ongoing. Rijohn's body will be handed over to his relatives after a post-mortem examination. Public homage will be paid at the Kozhikode Corporation Stadium, after which his body will be taken to Ollur for the last rites, scheduled for 11:00 AM IST on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at his residence.
Rijohn Jose is survived by his father, Jose MP, mother Treesa Jose, and brother Tijo MJ. His sudden and tragic death leaves a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the Kerala football community, who remember him as a talented player and a dedicated professional.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 21, 2026 03:46 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
