Jorge Vergara, one-time owner of former MLS club Chivas USA as well as Mexico's Chivas of Guadalajara and Costa Rica's Deportivo Saprissa, died Friday following a heart attack. He was 64 and suffered a cardiac failure, according to a statement from his son Amaury.
"With deep sadness and pain in my heart, I communicate to you that my father, Jorge Carlos Vergara Madrigal, president and founder of Grupo Omnilife Chivas, passed from this life due to cardiac failure today, November 15, in the city of New York, United States," wrote Amaury Vergara.
"We honor my father the way he always taught us with his example: working day in and day out, taking care of others and reaching our dreams," he continued.
MLS Commissioner Don Garber released a statement following Vergara's death.
“Major League Soccer is saddened to learn of the passing of former Chivas USA owner Jorge Vergara," he wrote. "Jorge played an important role in the growth of Major League Soccer, and his vision helped grow the sport throughout North America. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.”
Vergara's Chivas USA operated in MLS from 2005 to 2014. The club reached the MLS Cup Playoffs in four of its first five seasons in the league.
