Cody Gakpo will continue with the Netherlands squad at the FIFA World Cup 2026 following the devastating loss of his unborn son, the Dutch football association has confirmed.

Gakpo's partner, model Noa van der Bij, broke the heartbreaking news on Saturday. The couple had been expecting their second child together — a boy — due in October. Van der Bij shared a photograph on social media showing the pair holding hands over a blanket and a knitted hat.

"With broken hearts, we share the devastating news that our baby boy passed away during pregnancy," she wrote. "Thank you for your love and support. Elijah Raphael Gakpo. Forever loved. Forever our son."

In a second post, Van der Bij described a visit to church and a moment she described as a sign of comfort. "We went to church to light a candle. Afterward, we walked to the church playground with our son Samuel. There was only one other child there. His name was Elijah. There could not have been a more beautiful sign from God. He reminded us that our little boy is never far away."

Gakpo also addressed the loss publicly, writing: "This is an incredibly difficult time for our family. We kindly ask for our privacy and space. Thank you for your understanding."

The Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) expressed its condolences and confirmed that Gakpo, 27, chose to remain with the squad following discussions with Van der Bij. "First of all, we sympathise with Cody and his family, Noa and their son Samuel. This is a very sad private situation," the association said in a statement.

"The KNVB is trying to support the family where possible. Cody has decided, in consultation with his girlfriend, to remain with the group. We respect their privacy and therefore will not comment further on the situation."

Gakpo has been a key figure for Netherlands throughout the tournament, starting all three of their group-stage matches and scoring twice against Sweden as his side advanced to the knockout rounds.

Netherlands face Morocco in the last 32 on Tuesday, with the game taking place in Mexico.