A Heartbreaking Loss: Influencer Rafaela Del Bianchi Dies at 27 After Horrific Car Crash — Ex-Man City Star Kerolin Pays Emotional Tribute

The football world and social media community are mourning the devastating loss of Rafaela Del Bianchi, a Brazilian influencer and former partner of Manchester City women’s football star Kerolin Nicoli, who tragically died at just 27 years old in a car accident in São Paulo, Brazil.

The accident occurred in the early hours of Friday morning on Lix da Cunha Highway in Campinas, a city located about 60 miles from São Paulo.

According to local reports, Del Bianchi was thrown from her vehicle after it overturned on the road at around 5 a.m. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities confirmed that the content creator was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. Her passenger, who had fastened theirs, survived with minor injuries.

Police later found the vehicle flipped over on its roof — a twisted wreck that served as a tragic reminder of how quickly life can change in an instant.

Moments Before the Crash

Just hours before the accident, Rafaela had shared a series of photos and videos from a nightclub on her Instagram Stories. In the clips, she appeared cheerful, enjoying a night out with friends — unaware that it would be her last.

Her final post, timestamped less than three hours before the crash, showed her smiling into the camera, with flashing lights and music in the background.

“It looked like a normal night — fun, carefree,” one friend told local outlet O Globo. “No one could ever imagine it would end this way.”

When emergency responders arrived, they found her lifeless body a few meters away from the car. Despite efforts to resuscitate her, she was declared dead at the scene.

A Rising Star in the Football Community

Rafaela Del Bianchi had become a prominent social media personality in Brazil’s football scene. Known for her fitness routines, motivational posts, and glimpses into her life as a young mother, she had amassed over 29,000 followers across her online platforms.

Her content often featured her daughter, 11-year-old Júlia, who was the center of her world.

Friends described her as “vibrant, disciplined, and endlessly loving,” both as a mother and as an athlete who had once dreamed of pursuing a professional career in sports before focusing on digital content creation.

“She had this contagious energy — always smiling, always encouraging people to chase their dreams,” said one follower on Instagram. “She inspired so many young women.”

A Love Once Shared

Rafaela was also known for her relationship with Kerolin Nicoli, a Brazilian international and current forward for Manchester City Women.

The two began dating in 2022 and quickly became a beloved couple in the women’s football community. They often appeared together in social media posts — laughing, traveling, working out — portraying a life filled with love and mutual respect.

Their relationship reportedly ended in 2023, but according to those close to them, they had remained on good terms.

Following the tragic news, Kerolin broke her silence in an emotional message posted on Instagram.

“You will be loved forever, Rafa,” she wrote, accompanied by a black heart emoji and a photo of the two together. “I promise to look after Júlia. Rest in peace, my angel.”

The post quickly went viral, with thousands of fans and teammates offering their condolences and prayers.

The Night That Changed Everything

Police reports from the São Paulo Department of Public Safety indicate that the crash happened while Del Bianchi was driving home from a nightclub in Campinas.

Initial findings suggest that she lost control of the vehicle, which then flipped multiple times before coming to a stop upside down. The investigation is ongoing, but alcohol and speed are being considered as possible factors.

A spokesperson for local authorities confirmed:

“The driver was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected from the vehicle upon impact. The passenger, who was wearing one, sustained minor injuries. An investigation has been opened to determine the exact cause of the accident.”

No other vehicles were involved.

Tributes Pour In

News of Del Bianchi’s death spread rapidly across Brazil and beyond, with messages of sorrow and disbelief flooding social media.

Kerolin’s Manchester City teammates were among the first to offer their condolences.

“We are heartbroken for Kero and Rafaela’s family,” one team statement read. “Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this tragedy.”

Brazilian footballer Marta also commented under Kerolin’s post with a simple message:

“Stay strong, Kero. Sending love.”

Fans across the world expressed their shock, using hashtags like #RIPRafaela and #Forever27 to honor her memory.

A Life of Passion and Resilience

Born and raised in Campinas, Rafaela had always been passionate about sports, fitness, and self-improvement. Friends recalled that she had overcome many obstacles as a young single mother and turned her challenges into motivation for others.

On her Instagram bio, she wrote:

“Be strong, stay kind, and love without fear.”

It was a mantra she seemed to live by — one that now feels heartbreakingly prophetic.

“She wasn’t just an influencer,” one friend said. “She was a fighter, a mother, a lover, and a light to many.”

A Community in Mourning

In Campinas, friends and family gathered over the weekend to honor Rafaela’s memory. A candlelight vigil was held near the site of the crash, where dozens placed flowers, candles, and messages of love.

Her daughter Júlia, surrounded by relatives, released a white balloon into the sky — a final farewell to her mother.

“She was my whole world,” said one family member softly. “And she left too soon.”

An Urgent Reminder

The tragedy has reignited discussions in Brazil about seatbelt safety, particularly among younger drivers. According to the São Paulo state traffic authority, nearly 40% of fatalities in rollover crashes involve unbelted passengers.

Local campaigns are now urging drivers — especially influencers with large audiences — to promote safety awareness.

Gone Too Soon, Never Forgotten

As the investigation continues, those who loved Rafaela Del Bianchi are left with memories of her laughter, her strength, and the energy she brought to every room she entered.

For Kerolin and Júlia, the loss is immeasurable. For her followers, it’s a painful reminder of how fragile life can be — even for those who seem to have it all.

“She was the sunshine on a cloudy day,” one follower commented. “And now, she’s part of the sky she loved so much.”

🕯️ Rest in peace, Rafaela Del Bianchi (1998–2025). Your light will live on through every heart you touched.