The capture of Nicolas Maduro in Caracas, as part of a US military operation, caused a strong international impact that transcended politics and fully reached the world of sports. Since January 3rd, athletes from various disciplines and nationalities have been expressing their views on social media with messages of support, celebration, reflection, and controversy regarding the future of Venezuela.

'Checo' Perez sends a message of support to the Venezuelan people

One of the first to speak out was Mexican Formula One driver Sergio 'Checo' Perez, who posted a heartfelt message on Instagram addressed to the Venezuelan people.

“Venezuelan brothers and sisters, I send you a warm hug. You are an example that faith is never lost. My prayers are with you all. Free Venezuela,” wrote the Cadillac driver, generating thousands of reactions.

Juan Guillermo Cuadrado and Erik Noya celebrate on social media

From European football, Colombian Juan Guillermo Cuadrado, currently playing for Pisa in Italy, invited his followers to join in prayer for Venezuela and celebrated the arrest of the Chavista leader.

“The wait was long. Free Venezuela,” the footballer wrote alongside an image of the Venezuelan flag.

Even more forceful was the message from climber Erik Noya, born in Caracas and naturalized Spanish in 2019, who celebrated Maduro's capture without reservation.

“Now you can deal with it, you toads,” the athlete, winner of the silver medal at the 2021 World Championships and the bronze at the 2024 European Championships, declared.

In a video shared on social media, Noya added: “They looked so handsome, all puffed up, looking down their noses, while people defended themselves tooth and nail, and they were mercilessly killed,” while celebrating, visibly moved.

Gabriel Cichero and the message “Freedom 2026”

Another statement that generated impact was that of the former Venezuelan footballer Gabriel Cichero, with a past at Newell's Old Boys of Argentine football. The former Vinotinto defender titled his post “Freedom 2026” and shared an image from his time as a national team player, accompanied by words dedicated to the Venezuelan people.

Cristian Toro: A Personal and Political Testimony

Canoeist Cristian Toro, a legend of Spanish sport after winning Olympic gold in Rio 2016, also joined the reactions with a video that did not go unnoticed.

“I'm putting myself out there to make this video because I'm happy, because they've finally captured this character,” said Toro, born on Margarita Island.

In his message, he recalled living under the governments of Hugo Chavez and Nicolas Maduro, noting the impact of almost three decades of crisis.

“We are seeing that they silence us, that we cannot express our opinions on certain issues; that, depending on what you think, they label you, or that I, for expressing my opinion, am often… “He has labeled me one thing or another,” he stated.

“There is still a long way to go, it's not over here, but I encourage everyone to participate in the debates, in this case, political ones,” he concluded.

Stefany Hernandez's Controversial Post

Venezuelan cyclist Stefany Hernandez, Olympic bronze medalist in Rio 2016, sparked a major controversy with a message posted shortly after the military attacks in Caracas.

“We are alive. We are just getting hit by small bombs. S.O.S. Venezuela is peace. No war. Peace4Ever,” the 34-year-old athlete wrote against a black background, provoking mixed reactions among his followers.

Later, the BMX star shared images of the sunrise in Venezuela accompanied by the phrase: “God is with us.”

Jhonattan Vegas Celebrates and Aims for a New Direction

The professional golfer Jhonattan Vegas, one of the Venezuelan athletes most critical of the country's political and social landscape, celebrated Maduro's capture with an effusive message on Twitter.

“Long live Venezuela, damn it!” he wrote alongside twelve Venezuelan flags.

The PGA Tour player, who has lived in Texas for years, also expressed himself in English: “Long live Venezuela, damn it!”, reaffirming his hope for a change of course for his nation.