Brighton fan dies after Fulham draw as club CEO issues emotional statement | Football | Sport

Published: 2025-08-17 01:25:07 | Views: 7


Brighton and Hove Albion have confirmed that one of their supporters died after Saturday's game against Fulham. In a statement, they said a 72-year-old man was taken unwell during the second half of the match at the Amex Stadium. He was treated by emergency services and medical staff, who administered CPR and defibrillation on the scene.

Privacy screens were erected as the man continued to receive treatment at the stadium. Brighton said they considered stopping the match, but decided not to because the vast majority of supporters and both sets of players were unaware of what was happening. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, the man was pronounced dead after the final whistle.

Brighton chief executive Paul Barber said: "This was an incredibly sad end to the match this afternoon, and our deepest sympathies and condolences go out to the family and friends of the gentleman who lost his life.

"While the gentleman concerned is foremost in our minds, we are also aware that it was an emotional and distressing situation for staff and supporters in the direct vicinity. Over the coming days we will ensure those affected are properly supported."

Paul Galloway, club doctor and emergency medicine consultant, added: "Firstly, I would like to convey my condolences and sympathies to the gentleman’s family and friends.

"It was a tragic outcome, but from an emergency response perspective, the medical care was exemplary and the professionalism of club stewards and Sussex Police provided the medical team with the best possible working environment."

Shortly after the tragic news was announced, Fulham posted a statement on X (formerly Twitter) which read: "Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the Brighton supporter who sadly passed away after this afternoon’s match.

"We extend our deepest sympathies with everyone at Brighton and Hove Albion FC, their fans, players and staff."

Brighton were denied victory in their Premier League opener as a late Fulham goal ensured the spoils were shared. The hosts looked better for much of the contest and were rewarded after the break when Matt O'Riley converted from the penalty spot.

They were on course to begin their campaign with a deserved victory until Rodrigo Muniz equalised deep into stoppage time. He diverted the ball home from a corner to give Fulham a dramatic point on the opening weekend.

Brighton will become the first visitors to the Hill Dickinson Stadium when they face Everton next weekend, while Fulham will entertain Manchester United on home soil at Craven Cottage.



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