A Rangers supporter tragically lost their life in a road traffic accident in Istanbul just hours before the team’s crucial Europa League last-16 match against Fenerbahce.
Rangers confirm tragic death of supporter
The Ibrox club confirmed the news in an official statement released on Thursday morning. “We are devastated to have learned of the passing of one of our supporters in a road traffic accident overnight in Istanbul,” the statement read. “The immediate thoughts of everyone at the club are with their family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”
Rangers also expressed that they were in constant contact with both Turkish and British authorities regarding the incident.
More than 2,000 fans in Istanbul for Europa League match
More than 2,000 visiting fans had traveled to Turkey to support the team ahead of their match at the Sukru Saracoglu Stadium against José Mourinho’s Fenerbahce squad on Thursday evening.
Fenerbahce offer condolences to Rangers and the family
Fenerbahce, the home team, also shared their condolences following the tragic news. “We have learned with deep sorrow that a Rangers fan who came to Istanbul to support his team in the first match of the Europa League last-16 round passed away as a result of a traffic accident,” their statement said. “We would like to express our condolences to the family of the deceased fan, Rangers and the community.”
UK authorities in touch with Turkish officials
A spokesperson from the UK’s Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office commented, “We are aware of the death of a British man in Turkey and are in touch with the local authorities.”
