The football community is in mourning after a supporter died during a Championship match at The Valley on Saturday, 6th December 2025.
Match halted after medical emergency
The Championship meeting between Charlton Athletic and Portsmouth was abandoned in the 12th minute following a serious medical incident in the Covered End. Players from both sides remained on the pitch as treatment was administered before eventually being sent to the dressing rooms.
Charlton Athletic released an official statement at 3:25 pm, confirming the tragic news. The club expressed they were 'devastated' to learn that the supporter had later passed away in hospital.
The statement read: "The club are devastated to report that a Charlton Athletic supporter has died following a medical emergency during today’s game. The match was halted in the 12th minute while the supporter received treatment and was subsequently postponed."
It continued, thanking club staff, first responders, and the understanding shown by other fans and the Portsmouth team. The fixture, which was 0-0 at the time of abandonment, will be rearranged for a later date this season.
Football world unites in grief
Messages of condolence poured in from across the sport. London rivals Millwall were among the first to respond, posting on social media platform X: "Everyone at Millwall is deeply saddened by this news. Our love and condolences are with the supporter’s family and friends, as well as everybody at Charlton Athletic."
The English Football League (EFL) also issued a statement, offering its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and everyone connected with Charlton Athletic.
Portsmouth Football Club released its own message, stating: "#Pompey are devastated to learn that the Charlton supporter taken ill at today’s game has passed away. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with their family and friends at this difficult time."
Other clubs, including Carlisle United, Chesterfield, and Walsall, also shared their sympathy on social media.
Moving forward
Charlton Athletic are scheduled to return to action at The Valley on Tuesday night against Middlesbrough. Portsmouth, meanwhile, will travel to face Swansea City in their next Championship outing.
The tragic event serves as a sobering reminder of the community within football, which swiftly united in support during a time of profound loss.
