Naty Potira, a prominent Santos FC influencer and former flight attendant known for her passionate support of the club, died on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at the age of 39 in São Paulo due to metastatic cervical cancer. Her death sparked widespread mourning across the Brazilian football community, drawing public tributes from Santos FC and star forward Neymar Jr.
Battle With Metastatic Cancer
Natália Potira was diagnosed with cervical cancer in September 2023, according to reports from ND Mais and Jornal da Orla. Over the course of her three-year battle, the illness spread to other parts of her body, including her neck, uterus, and abdomen. She underwent multiple rounds of chemotherapy and radiation. Though she briefly announced she was cancer-free in March 2024, the disease later returned, requiring renewed treatment and a prolonged hospital stay in São Paulo where she remained sedated since September 20.
Tributes From Santos FC and Neymar Jr.
Santos FC published an official statement mourning the loss of their passionate supporter, highlighting her infectious carisma and her active participation in club initiatives, such as the Pink October (Outubro Rosa) breast cancer awareness campaigns. “Natália was a flight attendant who always exalted her love for Peixão,” the club stated, praising her dedication to the Vila Belmiro stadium and its fanbase. Forward Neymar Jr. also used social media to honor her memory, posting, “Rest in peace!!! Cheer for us from up there.”
https://x.com/SantosFC/status/2103965961980129696
Digital Presence and Community Impact
Before gaining hundreds of thousands of followers as a digital creator sharing match days, club backstage content, and travel vlogs, Potira worked professionally as a commercial flight attendant. She leveraged her online platform to not only champion Santos FC but also to speak openly about her cancer diagnosis and treatment journey, notably appearing on the podcast Nunca Deixar de Sonhar to share her experiences with her audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Naty Potira?
Naty Potira (Natália Potira) was a digital influencer, former flight attendant, and prominent supporter of Santos FC who gained a large following sharing content about the club.
What caused her death?
She passed away from metastatic cervical cancer after battling the disease for roughly three years.
How old was she when she died?
She was 39 years old.
How did Santos FC and Neymar react?
Santos FC released a formal tribute highlighting her dedication to club campaigns like Outubro Rosa, while Neymar Jr. shared a farewell message on social media asking her to cheer for the team from above.
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