A dramatic incident unfolded at the Stadium de Toulouse in France, causing chaos and delaying the European Champions Cup match between Sale and Toulouse. A parachutist, as part of a pre-match display, became entangled in the stadium roof, dangling approximately 150 feet above the stands. The paratrooper was one of four meant to land on the pitch with the match ball but encountered difficulties.
Stadium officials swiftly responded by clearing fans from beneath the stranded parachutist and assembling an “emergency landing pad” made of tackle bags below him. Video footage captured the tense atmosphere as even the Toulouse mascot hurried to deliver post protectors to the area under the parachutist. A fire engine arrived to aid in rescuing the paratrooper, and an inflatable mat from a children’s game outside the stadium was brought into the stands for added safety.
The kick-off time for the highly anticipated match, scheduled for 3 pm, had to be postponed to 3.30 pm due to the unfolding situation. Eyewitnesses inside the stadium, including Mail On Sunday rugby correspondent Nik Simon and The Telegraph’s Charlie Morgan, shared updates on social media, describing the unfolding drama and unique efforts to free the dangling parachutist. Fans were evacuated from beneath the parachutist, and emergency measures were put in place.
The incident garnered attention and concern, with spectators and officials working together to ensure the safety of the parachutist. The unexpected turn of events added an element of suspense to the match, as all eyes were on the stadium roof where the paratrooper remained suspended. The presence of emergency responders and quick-thinking stadium officials helped manage the crisis and prevent any further complications.
While the delay was unavoidable, the priority remained on resolving the situation and ensuring the safe extraction of the parachutist. The resilience and cooperation displayed by all parties involved in handling the unexpected incident were commendable. As the match eventually kicked off after the necessary precautions were taken, spectators, players, and officials alike could breathe a sigh of relief that the situation was under control.
The thrilling and unexpected prelude to the Sale versus Toulouse match left a lasting impression on all those present at the Stadium de Toulouse. Despite the initial shock and disruption, the successful rescue of the parachutist will be remembered as a testament to the swift action and teamwork demonstrated in the face of adversity. The match eventually proceeded, but the memory of the parachutist’s unplanned aerial display will linger as a unique chapter in the history of European rugby events.