Roger Lukaku, former professional footballer and father of Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku, has died at the age of 58.
The news was confirmed by his son on social media, where Romelu shared a childhood photograph alongside an emotional message mourning the loss.
“Thank you for teaching me everything I know. I’m forever grateful and appreciate you. Life will never be the same. Protecting and guiding me like no one else could. I won’t be the same,” the Napoli forward wrote.
“The pain and tears are flowing big time. But God will give me the strength to get myself back together. Merci pour tout Roger Menama Lukaku Vieux Roy. Mon Papa.”
South Africa deducted three points in 2026 World Cup qualifiers
Tributes quickly followed from across the football community. The Belgian FA expressed condolences to the Lukaku family, describing their thoughts and prayers as being with them.
Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku, Romelu’s Belgium teammate, responded with a message of support, while former England defender Rio Ferdinand also offered solidarity.
Roger Lukaku enjoyed a respectable playing career after arriving in Belgium from Zaire (now DR Congo). During the 1990s, he turned out for several Belgian clubs including Rupel Boom, KV Oostende, Seraing, Germinal Ekeren and KV Mechelen.
Though his own career never reached international fame, he was regarded as an important figure in Belgian football at the time.
More significantly, Roger played a defining role in shaping the early years of his son. Romelu has repeatedly spoken of his father’s discipline, guidance, and belief as key to his rise to become one of Europe’s most prolific strikers.
Roger Lukaku, the former footballer and father of Romelu Lukaku and Jordan Lukaku, has passed away at the age of 58. RIP pic.twitter.com/aSV06RmaiV
— TheEuropeanLad (@ThaEuropeanLad) September 29, 2025
FKA/MA
Watch the latest episode of Sports Check with Boxer Jacob Dickson below:
