Real Kashmir FC owner Sandeep Chattoo passes away

Sandeep Chattoo was a pioneering force, working for the betterment of football in Jammu & Kashmir.

In a shocking news coming in for the Indian footballing fraternity, prominent businessman and the owner of Real Kashmir FC, Sandeep Chattoo has passed away.

Sandeep Chattoo suffered a massive heart attack in New Delhi on Sunday, which led to his sudden demise, as per people close to Real Kashmir FC. His remains are scheduled to arrive in Jammu later today.

According to the family, he experienced chest pain in the afternoon, following which he was swiftly taken to a hospital in Gurugram, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

“Sandeep sir has passed away due to heart attack no further information has been provided yet. Some of the club officials from Kashmir have already left for Jammu. The whole club is in shock,” said a footballer associated with the club to local publication Kashmir Sports Watch. 

Chattoo is widely acknowledged for his pivotal role in reinvigorating football across Jammu & Kashmir. The inception of Real Kashmir Football Club, affectionately known as the ‘Snow Leopards’, dates back to 2016 and is credited to him.

RKFC achieved significant success, notably winning the second division I-League in 2018. In December 2020, the club further solidified its accomplishments by securing victory in the 123rd edition of the IFA Shield.

The untimely demise of Chattoo, now poses a significant loss for both the club as well and the entire region, keeping in mind his pioneering contributions towards the betterment of football across the state. 

The J&K Football Association has mourned Sandeep’s “sudden and heartbreaking loss”. “Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and the entire football fraternity,” the Association said in a statement. 

Official statement from Real Kashmir FC

“Real Kashmir Football Club (RKFC) owner Sandeep Chatoo died on Sunday due to a cardiac arrest in New Delhi,” the club announced. 

“Sandeep, a Kashmiri Pandit, was in New Delhi for work when he suffered a massive heart attack. He was promptly rushed to the hospital but, unfortunately, could not survive. Family sources have confirmed that his body will be brought to Jammu for his final rites.”

“Sandeep, survived by his wife, son, and daughter, also owned CH2 Hotel Sonawar.

“Formed in 2016 by Sandeep, RKFC has transcended its role as just a football club, becoming a significant platform for valley youth. It has actively engaged in promoting local players, sending them to various countries, and competing in top leagues across India. Sandeep’s unwavering commitment to local players has resulted in many individuals from Jammu and Kashmir participating in the country’s premier football leagues. The RKFC is the only club from J&K participating in the I-League.”

“The RKFC staff has conveyed their condolences to the grieving family and prayed for peace to the departed soul,” the statement ended.

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