Víctor Tornés, a celebrated figure in Granma's baseball history, finds himself living in dire conditions in Bayamo following a stroke about a month ago, which has rendered him unable to care for himself. This urgent plea for help was highlighted by the independent sports journalism initiative, "From the Stands with Andino."
The Cuban independent sports journalism project was informed by neighbors and acquaintances of the former athlete, who described his situation as both critical and urgent.
Residing at 13 Street #169, between 10 and 12, in the Siboney neighborhood of Bayamo, Tornés is suffering from a decline in health without any visible institutional support, despite his status as a provincial sports icon.
Struggles at Home
His wife is also bedridden, having suffered a cerebral ischemia that has left her "without speech, mobility, and confined to bed," according to the project's statement.
The only individual attempting to care for them is the wife's daughter, who has visual impairments and can only be present temporarily, as she resides in Ciego de Ávila.
Life Before the Stroke
Prior to his stroke, Tornés made a living collecting trash on a makeshift bicycle—an indication of the level of neglect he faced despite his sports legacy.
After his stroke, doctors prohibited him from working. He cannot bathe himself or care for his wife, and both require daily attention from trained personnel.
Institutional Neglect of Retired Athletes
This case adds to a documented pattern of institutional neglect of retired Cuban athletes. Pan-American wrestling champion Lisset Hechavarría fell into poverty after retirement, one of the most notable cases in recent years.
Since 2000, Cuba has had the INDER National Commission for Athlete Support, and in 2025, the Cuban Parliament approved a new Sports System Law recognizing sports legends and establishing special protection for retired athletes.
Nonetheless, the gap between policy and practice is well-documented. The official newspaper Trabajadores noted that the sports legends support program has a "good script, poor execution," acknowledging the practical limitations.
Call for Immediate Action
The "From the Stands with Andino" project demands urgent intervention from Granma authorities, INDER, the Commission for Athlete and Sports Legends Support, and social assistance services.
"Víctor Tornés devoted years to his sport and brought joy to Granma's fans. Today, he and his wife need the community and institutions to return a bit of that support," the statement emphasizes.
"No one, whether a sports legend or not, should live in such neglect. This case is in front of us now. Let's not look away," concludes Andino.
Understanding the Challenges Faced by Retired Athletes in Cuba
What is the current state of Víctor Tornés?
Víctor Tornés is in a critical state, unable to care for himself after suffering a stroke, and he is living in severe neglect without institutional support.
What challenges do retired athletes in Cuba face?
Retired athletes in Cuba often face neglect and lack of support, despite policies meant to protect them. The gap between policy and practice is significant, leaving many in poverty.
What actions are being urged by the "From the Stands with Andino" project?
The project is calling for urgent intervention from local authorities, sports institutions, and social services to address the dire situation of Víctor Tornés and his wife.