Charlton Fan Passes Away as Match Against Portsmouth Abandoned

Charlton Fan Dies After Medical Emergency Causes Championship Clash to be Abandoned

A Charlton fan has died after suffering a medical emergency in the crowd at today's lunchtime kick-off vs Portsmouth.

Referee Matthew Donohue was alerted to the situation in the 12th minute by nearby supporters, who were shouting to get his attention.

After six minutes of the pause in play whilst the supporter was attended to in the stands by medical officials, Donohue took the players off the pitch and into the changing rooms.

Just over 45 minutes after the original break in play, it was announced over the tannoy that the game would not be resuming.

At 15:25 - two hours after the abandonment - it was confirmed via The Addicks' twitter account that the fan had sadly passed away in hospital.

Charlton's match against Portsmouth at The Valley has been abandoned due to a medical emergency in the crowd. pic.twitter.com/NAMkAqxyYP

— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) December 6, 2025

A Charlton club statement read:

"The club are devastated to report that a Charlton Athletic supporter has died following a medical emergency during today’s game at The Valley against Portsmouth.

"The match was halted in the 12th minute while the supporter received treatment and was subsequently postponed.

"The club would like to thank the Charlton staff and first responders who did everything they could, but sadly the supporter later passed away in hospital.

"The club are grateful to supporters in attendance and the Portsmouth players and staff for their patience and understanding as this tragedy unfolded.

"Everyone at the club sends their heartfelt condolences to the supporter’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time."

A new date will be announced at some point in the future for the replay of the fixture, but in circumstances like this, football is irrelevant.