Islamabad, Apr 7, 2025: A dramatic pre-match incident delayed the start of the European Champions Cup fixture between Sale Sharks and Toulouse, after a parachutist became entangled in the roof of the Stadium de Toulouse.
The parachutist, part of a group of four delivering the match ball in a pre-game ceremony, was left suspended roughly 150 feet above ground when his parachute caught on the stadium structure.
The planned stunt went awry moments before kick-off, prompting immediate safety measures by stadium officials.
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Spectators seated beneath the trapped parachutist were quickly evacuated as emergency responders created a makeshift landing area using tackle bags.
In scenes that captured the attention of the entire stadium, even Toulouse’s mascot was seen racing across the pitch to assist in delivering protective equipment.
Firefighters arrived promptly, bringing in a ladder truck and additional safety gear.
In a moment of quick thinking, officials retrieved an inflatable mat previously used in a children’s game outside the venue and placed it inside the stadium to further cushion a potential fall.
However, the paratrooper was eventually rescued using the ladder and brought down safely to loud applause from relieved fans.
The match, originally scheduled for a 3:00 PM kick-off, was delayed by approximately 30 minutes.
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Players had already completed their warm-ups when the incident occurred, and they were sent back to the tunnel until the situation was resolved.
Eyewitnesses described the atmosphere as tense yet orderly.
Rugby correspondent Nik Simon, who was present at the scene, shared updates from the stadium and confirmed that three other parachutists landed without issue before the mishap occurred.
Despite the shaky start, the game resumed with high spirits as both teams and supporters applauded the safe outcome.
The incident highlighted both the risks of elaborate pre-match entertainment and the importance of swift emergency response.
