Cuban judo coach Ronaldo Veitía will now be able to return to Cuba accompanied by his son

October 17, 2022

The son of former Cuban judo coach Ronaldo Veitía Valdivié confirmed on social media that Cuba's consulate in Spain, where he has resided for more than a decade, will allow him to accompany his sick father on his return to the island.

The text states that "the Cuban Consulate has informed me today that it makes it possible for me to accompany my father Ronaldo Veitía Valdivié on his return to Cuba, just as it has been his wish since day one: to return to his beloved homeland".

"I must begin by thanking the immense wave of solidarity and affection received toward my father. I apologize for not being able to respond to all those who have written to me offering their help, inquiring about my dad's situation, or leaving words of encouragement," he wrote on his Facebook profile.

"I want to thank the consul, INDER, and all the good people who in this process have given us their unconditional support so that my dad can see his wishes fulfilled," he insisted.

"To the many who show their affection and gratitude toward my dad, I thank you from the heart on behalf of the entire family. There are two things that have always been non-negotiable for my father: Judo and Cuba. Thank God he will have the opportunity to return and feel that what he has given to his country with all his heart is being reciprocated with the affection and admiration of the people," were his final words.

Previously, the son of the former Cuban coach had launched a public "call for help" where he explained that "I cannot accompany him (which would be ideal) because my Cuban passport is expired and according to information provided by the Consulate, the renewal can take up to 2 months".

Veitía Jr clarified that this was "time that my father cannot wait, who is still hospitalized after 68 days in the hospital and whose only wish is to return to his homeland".

In response to his complaint, the bureaucratic problem was resolved and the former athlete will be able to return to the island in the coming days with his son.

In mid-August, Veitía showed notable improvement in his condition, but not enough to receive medical discharge in Alicante, the Spanish city where he has been hospitalized since suffering the cardiovascular accident.