A Brighton supporter has died after collapsing during the Seagulls' Premier League opener against Fulham on Saturday, with the club issuing a statement after privacy screens were put up
21:50, 16 Aug 2025
Brighton & Hove Albion v Fulham - Premier League
The man was pronounced dead after the final whistle(Image: Getty)
Brighton and Hove Albion have tragically announced the death of a 72 year old fan following Saturday's match against Fulham at the Amex Stadium. The club revealed in a statement that the elderly supporter fell ill during the second half of the game, prompting immediate attention from emergency services and medical personnel who performed CPR and defibrillation on site.
As the man continued to receive urgent medical care, privacy screens were put up within the stadium. Brighton considered halting the match but ultimately decided against it as most fans and both teams were oblivious to the unfolding situation.
Despite the tireless efforts of the medical team, the man was sadly declared dead after the final whistle.
Brighton have announced that one of their fans died after Saturday's game
Brighton have announced that one of their fans died after Saturday's game(Image: GETTY)
Paul Barber, Brighton's chief executive, expressed his sorrow, saying: "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."
He added: "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.", reports the Express.
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Club doctor and emergency medicine consultant, Paul Galloway, also extended his condolences, stating: "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."
A view of the match ball on a multi ball cone
The club issued a statement(Image: Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Following the heartbreaking announcement, Fulham released a statement on X (formerly Twitter) saying: "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 robbed of victory in their Premier League curtain-raiser as a last-gasp Fulham strike meant the points were divided.
The Seagulls dominated large portions of the encounter and got their reward after the interval when Matt O'Riley slotted home from the penalty spot.
They appeared destined to kick off their season with a well-earned triumph until Rodrigo Muniz levelled deep into added time.
He deflected the ball into the net from a corner to hand Fulham a dramatic point on the opening weekend.
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Brighton will make history as the inaugural away team at the Hill Dickinson Stadium when they take on Everton next weekend, whilst Fulham will welcome Manchester United to their Craven Cottage home.