The heartbreaking accident that killed Belgian football star François Sterchele

Belgian striker François Sterchele was at the top of his game when he was tragically torn away from his family, friends and teammates. Let's look back at the career and life of a man who captured people's hearts with his feet and disarming smile. All career stats are sourced from Transfermarkt unless otherwise stated.

Sterchele first made his name in the lower tiers of Belgian football, scoring many goals for Kelmis and OH Leuven, but he would soon move to the first division.

It was Sporting Charleroi who signed the prolific striker for the 2005/06 season on a free transfer and gave him a chance to prove himself at the highest level. Sterchele took the opportunity with both hands, scoring nine goals in the league.

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In 2006, Sterchele moved to Germinal Beerschot, another first division side. The striker took off like a rocket in Antwerp, scoring 21 goals that season and crowning himself the top scorer in the Belgian league.

During that season, Sterchele fulfilled another dream by recording his first cap for Belgium. In total, he would make four appearances for his country without scoring.

Another transfer followed in the summer of 2007 for Sterchele, who went to Club Brugge for five years, beating Anderlecht for his signature. The international would become a firm favourite with the fans thanks to his positive attitude and Luca Toni celebration, who was his idol.

In his first season for Club Brugge, Sterchele scored twelve goals in all competitions, making a good start at his new club. However, his adventure in the Jan Breydel Stadium would soon take a tragic turn.

On 8 May 2008, the Belgian press reported that Sterchele was involved in an accident on his way from Antwerp to the coastal town of Knokke, where he lived. He reportedly lost control of the wheel and crashed his Porsche Cayman into a tree. He was killed instantly.

The news hit Club Brugge, its players and fans hard. The club honoured Sterchele with an impressive tribute on 10 May, before a league game against Westerlo, with fans applauding in minute 23, Sterchele's number.

Club Brugge fans still honour Sterchele in minute 23 to this day, continuing his legacy, and the club has retired number 23 forever.

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