Remembering Canito 25 Years On and Celebrating Sports Legacy at Gala del Deporte 2025

José Cano López, known as Canito, is solemnly remembered on the 25th anniversary of his passing at age 44. Once a promising football defender, Canito’s career was marked by notable talent shadowed by personal and professional hardships. He began his career with Espanyol and later moved to Barcelona, where he struggled to find stability amid controversies. Former Espanyol sporting director Fernando Molinos spoke about Canito’s difficult childhood and struggles including addiction, financial troubles, and a painful divorce. Despite these hardships, Canito was deeply respected by his peers and fans, as demonstrated by the presence of over 500 people at his funeral. His former teammate Paco Flores recalls their time together in the 1970s fondly, highlighting Canito’s impact beyond the pitch.

Meanwhile, in Los Realejos, the upcoming Gala del Deporte 2025 will honor local sports excellence and legacy. Veteran athlete and former sports technician Maribel García Plasencia has been named honorary godmother of the event, which will take place on November 30 at 18:00 in the Complejo Basilio Labrador. The gala, announced by Mayor Adolfo González and Sports Councilor Samuel Farráis, will include performances from local rhythmic gymnastics clubs and bodybuilding exhibitions. It will also spotlight local gyms and sports shops for their contributions. Adding to the celebrations, a new mascot named 'Pinzón' will be officially unveiled. This event highlights the ongoing dedication to fostering sports and commemorating sporting legacies at a community level in the Canary Islands.

Both the remembrance of Canito’s complex legacy and the Gala del Deporte underscore the enduring nature of football and sports memory in Spain, balancing the celebration of triumphs with reflection on challenges faced by sporting figures.