Revealed: Jorge Bolano’s cause of death after former World Cup star collapsed at a family birthday party and died aged 47

• Jorge Bolano won 36 Colombia caps and was part of their 1998 World Cup squad
• He died aged 47 on Sunday, with Gianluigi Buffon among those paying tribute
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By LUKE POWER and LUKE AUGUSTUS

Jorge Bolana’s cause of death has been revealed after the former Colombia star died aged 47. 

The ex-World Cup star collapsed and died at a relative’s birthday party on Sunday, according to Bogota newspaper El Tiempo. 

He was rushed to a nearby clinic in an attempt to save him but later passed away.

And it was reported that the former Parma, Modena, and Lecce star suffered a heart attack. 

Tributes in his homeland and abroad have poured in for Bolano following the news.

In a statement released, the Colombian Football Federation wrote: ‘With deep sorrow, we express our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of Jorge Eladio Bolano Correa, former Colombian Men’s National Team player, professional soccer player, and coach, who passed away this Sunday, April 6, in the city of Cucuta.

Former Parma and Colombia midfielder Jorge Bolano’s cause of death has been revealed

Bolano, who represented Colombia 36 times, died of a heart attack at a relative’s birthday party

‘Bolano’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew and admired him. His legacy as a footballer and coach will live on in the memory of Colombian sport.

‘The FCF, in communion with the Executive Committee, headed by President Ramon Jesurun, offers our prayers for his eternal rest and sends strength to his family in this time of grief.’

Bolano won 36 caps for Colombia and was part of their 1998 World Cup squad but spent the majority of his career playing abroad in Italy.

He spent eight years at Parma, two of which saw loan spells at Sampdoria and Leece, and helped the club win the 2002 Coppa Italia – their last major honour to date.

His former team-mate Gianluigi Buffon hailed him as an ‘unforgettable friend and team-mate’.

‘Jorge was an unforgettable friend and team-mate, a constant in a locker room of extraordinary champions,’ his statement read.

‘We played and won together in the golden years of a great Parma.

‘On the pitch he fought without sparing himself and, off the pitch, I fondly remember his kindness and humanity that made him an example for everyone.

Gianluigi Buffon hailed his ex-Parma team-mate as an ‘unforgettable friend and team-mate’

‘We will always carry you with us, rest in peace, my friend.’

Parma also paid tribute to their former midfielder on social media.

‘Today, the whole of Parma Calcio extends condolences to the family of Jorge Bolano, who has passed away at 47-years-old, leaving an irreplaceable void. 

‘Goodbye, Jorge. Forever Gialloblu,’ the Serie A side said.

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Revealed: Jorge Bolano’s cause of death after former World Cup star collapsed at a family birthday party and died aged 47

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