Former athlete Alberto Juantorena is battling a neurodegenerative disease, with no signs of improvement in his health condition.
Journalist Yasel Porto reported, "Many have asked recently if there are any updates on the health condition of the legendary Cuban sportsman Alberto Juantorena Danger. After conducting some research, my close sources inform me that there has been no progression."
Porto emphasized that the 75-year-old double Olympic champion "hasn't stopped fighting for his life, despite the degenerative nature of his illness."
"It's highly unlikely that Juantorena will be seen at public events again, and the few photographs that have surfaced show the delicate condition he is in. I received a recent photo that I choose not to share due to the stark depiction of the Santiago native's physical state," Porto added.
The journalist further explained, "Any illness that directly affects a person's neurological system is extremely complex, and significant recovery is rarely, if ever, achieved."
Deteriorating Health
In December 2024, a photo obtained exclusively by CubaNet confirmed the severe physical decline of the renowned Cuban athlete.
The image depicted the former athlete extremely thin and seated in a wheelchair.
Earlier, in April of that year, the independent media outlet had already shared another photo of Juantorena.
In that previous instance, Juantorena was shown seated in a wheelchair next to Roberto Vargas Lee, the director of the Cuban Wushu School.
The media reported, "The Olympic double champion Alberto Juantorena has not regained his health, continues to rely on a wheelchair even at home, and experiences speech difficulties," based on testimonies from sources within the national athletic community.
An anonymous former official, who visited him recently, summed up, "He's still struggling."
As far back as November 2023, CubaNet had reported on Juantorena's declining health. It was specifically noted that he required a wheelchair and had trouble speaking.
In August 2022, Juantorena was in critical condition at the Pedro Kourí Institute of Tropical Medicine in Havana, suffering from dengue and post-COVID-19 syndrome.
According to CubaNet, his last public appearance was in March 2023 during a meeting with IOC President Thomas Bach at Havana's Pan American Stadium. On that occasion, he appeared to be in good health.
In August 2023, Juantorena was appointed an Honorary Member of the World Athletics Council (WA) and also received the Gold Order of Merit, the highest distinction awarded by the world governing body for athletics.
The Montreal '76 double Olympic champion led the Cuban Federation and held one of the vice-presidencies of the INDER for nearly three decades. He was also part of the World Athletics Council (formerly IAAF) from 1987 until this year and served as its vice president between 2015 and 2019.
FAQs on Alberto Juantorena's Health
What disease is Alberto Juantorena suffering from?
Alberto Juantorena is suffering from a neurodegenerative disease, which has shown no signs of improvement.
When was Alberto Juantorena last seen in public?
His last public appearance was in March 2023 during a meeting with IOC President Thomas Bach at the Pan American Stadium in Havana.
What recognition did Alberto Juantorena receive in 2023?
In 2023, Alberto Juantorena was named an Honorary Member of the World Athletics Council and received the Gold Order of Merit.