A 72-year-old Brighton & Hove Albion supporter has sadly passed away after falling ill during the club’s Premier League season opener against Fulham.
The incident occurred in the second half of the match on Saturday. Despite the swift response and tireless efforts of emergency services, club staff, and on-site medical personnel, the fan could not be saved.
Brighton’s chief executive, Paul Barber, expressed the club’s deep grief in a statement to BBC Sport, saying:
“We are devastated by the loss of one of our fans at today’s match. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the gentleman’s family and friends. This was a deeply distressing moment for everyone involved, and we are committed to supporting those affected in the days ahead.”
The game, which ended 1-1, was not halted as Brighton’s safety team, Sussex Police, and the Premier League determined that stopping play might have interfered with resuscitation efforts and could have complicated potential emergency transport if the patient had responded to treatment.
The club has assured that support will be provided to those impacted by the tragic event.
