Sergio Ramos Dedicates His New World Record To Reyes

By Max Wise

Spain and Real Madrid captain, Sergio Ramos, has dedicated his new world record in international football to former teammate Jose Antonio Reyes, who died in a car accident last week.

Spain’s 4-1 away win at Faroe Islands in the EURO 2020 qualifiers on Friday was Ramos’ 122nd win in international football, eclipsing a record previously held by Iker Casillas.

Ramos, who opened the scores with a header in the 6th minute, dedicated his new record for most international wins to his departed former teammate after the game.

"After the tragedy of our friend Reyes, what better way to remember him than by breaking a record with a headed goal - that's very significant for me," Ramos said in a video published by the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).

"It's for Jose Antonio's whole family and in his memory. May he rest in peace.”

"I'm tremendously proud to be able to break this world record. It's something that's said quickly, but ultimately, it's been many games and many years here [with the national team].

"To have a world record for wins and to be the player who has the most is a joy that makes you excited to keep working and coming back to the national team.”

"Hopefully, we can keep winning. It would be a really good sign."

Ramos and Reyes played together for the Spanish national team, with the latter making 21 appearances at La Furia Roja.

Ramos’ latest outing for Spain was his 164th international game during which he has won the European Championships twice and the FIFA World Cup in 2010.