Article by Mihai Șovei – Published Monday, 08 December 2025, 13:55 / Updated Monday, 08 December 2025 13:56
A tragic moment occurred at the Championship match between Charlton and Portsmouth. In the 12th minute of the game, a fan of the hosts was hurt, and the game was abandoned. According to the press release posted by the club, the supporter received medical attention, but died at the hospital.
This is Norman Barker, a well-known Charlton supporter.
Tragedy at the match between Charlton and Portsmouth
The Championship match, the second tier of English football, between Charlton and Portsmouth was interrupted after 12 minutes after the referee stopped the game. This was due to a medical incident in the stand housing the home fans.
After a five-minute stoppage, both teams were taken off the field while a fan continued to receive treatment from paramedics and club medical staff. The supporter was given CPR in the stands before being stretchered off to hospital where he died. About 50 minutes after the match was initially stopped, the stadium announcer asked the fans to leave the stadium.
Shortly after learning this news, the club came out with a statement explaining the situation.
The club is devastated to announce that a Charlton Athletic supporter has died following a medical emergency during today's game at 'The Valley' against Portsmouth.
The match was stopped in the 12th minute while the supporter received medical treatment and was later postponed.
The club would like to thank the Charlton staff and first responders who did everything they could, but sadly the supporter later died in hospital.
The club is grateful to the supporters in attendance and Portsmouth players and staff for their patience and understanding as this tragedy unfolded.
All members of the club send their sincere condolences to the supporter's family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.
– the statement posted by Charlton
The club released a statement identifying the supporter who died as Norman Barker, one of the most recognizable matchday fans at Charlton's stadium. He held a season ticket for 35 years and never missed a game of his favorite team.
Norman Barker, the supporter who died at the match between Charlton and Portsmouth / photo credit: charltonafc.com
