Flamengo icon admitted to São Paulo hospital; see why

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Coluna do Fla

·17 April 2026

Flamengo icon admitted to São Paulo hospital; see why

What happened to Oscar Schmidt, Flamengo basketball idol?

Oscar Schmidt fell ill this Friday (17). Given the situation, the former basketball player and Flamengo idol had to be taken to a hospital in São Paulo, where he remains hospitalized.

Through an official statement, Oscar’s press office said that the initial information was that the former athlete was receiving medical care. In the statement, the cause of the hospitalization of ‘Holy Hand,’ as fans called him, had not yet been revealed. Finally, the former player’s representatives asked for everyone’s understanding and respect toward the family.

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SEE THE OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM OSCAR SCHMIDT’S PRESS OFFICE

“We inform you that, so far, we are aware that he fell ill and is receiving medical care. There is still no confirmed information about his health condition, and further updates will be shared as soon as there is official information through the official channels. At this time, we ask for respect and sensitivity, preserving the family’s privacy and the necessary space for everything to be properly monitored. We thank everyone for their understanding.

WHAT WAS OSCAR SCHMIDT’S CURRENT SITUATION?

It is important to point out that Oscar faced many years of struggle after being diagnosed with brain cancer in 2011. However, in 2022, the idol announced that he was free of the disease and, as a result, stopped chemotherapy. Since then, the former athlete had appeared to be in good health.

IS OSCAR AN IDOL IN FLAMENGO’S HISTORY?

Oscar is a legend in Brazilian and world sports and, in addition, he is an idol for Flamengo fans. Wearing the Sacred Jersey, the former athlete won important titles, including two Carioca championships (1999 and 2002). With the Brazilian National Team jersey, ‘Holy Hand’ was part of the squad that won the 1987 Pan American Games.

*Update note

After receiving care at Hospital e Maternidade Santa Ana (HMSA), Oscar Schmidt passed away. Thus, the world idol and idol of Flamengo fans said goodbye at the age of 68.

SEE THE OFFICIAL STATEMENT

“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Oscar Schmidt, one of the greatest names in the history of world basketball and a figure of immense human and sporting significance. For more than 15 years, Oscar faced his battle against a brain tumor with courage, dignity, and resilience, remaining an example of determination, generosity, and love of life. Recognized for his brilliant career on the court and his striking personality off it, Oscar leaves behind a legacy that transcends sports and inspires generations of athletes and admirers in Brazil and around the world. The farewell will be held privately, restricted to family members, in respect of the family’s wish for an intimate moment of mourning. The family, deeply moved, is grateful for all the expressions of affection, respect, and solidarity received, and asks for everyone’s understanding regarding the need for privacy at this time of grief. His legacy will remain alive in the collective memory and in the history of sports, as well as in the hearts of all those touched by his journey.”

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.