The entire footballing community has joined Leicester City football club in mourning the loss of their owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha who died on Saturday evening in a helicopter crash.
Srivaddhanaprabha was one of the five people on the helicopter when it crashed in the car parking lot of King Power stadium, Leicester City’s home ground few moments after the game with West Ham.
Leicestershire Police named the other people killed in the crash as Nursara Suknamai, Kaveporn Punpare, pilot Eric Swaffer and his partner Izabela Roza Lechowicz.
Several football stars, fans and people all over the world paid tributes to the Thai billionaire businessman and four other people who were killed in the crash.
Leicester goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel, who reportedly witnessed the crash, wrote a letter to Srivaddhanaprabha expressing his sadness.
“I just cannot believe what I saw last night. It is difficult to put into words how much you have meant to this football club and the city of Leicester. Never have I ever come across a man like you. So hardworking, so dedicated, so passionate, so kind and so generous in the extreme.” Part of the letter reads.
Liverpool star Mohamed Salah also sent his prayers and thoughts to those involved in the accident.
“A truly sad day for football. My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of those who tragically passed away. #LCFC” Salah tweeted.
Defender Danny Simpson also paid tribute to the man who had owned the club for eight years:
“Thank you for everything you have done for me, the players, the fans, the club and the whole city of Leicester. You made mine and everyone else’s dream come true.I am devastated and can’t quite process what has happened but we will do our best to help this club grow. RIP #TheBoss” he tweeted.
Forward James Maddison also expressed how much the boss death had impacted him. “Devastated and heartbroken at the news that no one survived the helicopter crash yesterday. Life isn’t fair sometimes. A wonderful thoughtful man who lived and breathed Leicester City Football Club. Rest in Peace Boss #ThanksBoss
Spanish giants Real Madrid also paid their tribute in a statement:
“Real Madrid C. F. are saddened to hear of the passing of Leicester City FC owner, Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, as well as the others involved in the helicopter accident.
The club would like to send their condolences to their families, friends and all fans of Leicester.”
FC Barcelona also tweeted: Our thoughts are with the whole @lcfc family. Rest in peace.
A book of condolence, which will be shared with the Srivaddhanaprabha family, will be opened at King Power Stadium from Tuesday 30th October for supporters wishing to pay their respects.
As a result of the incident, Leicester’s First Team fixture against Southampton on Tuesday in the EFL Cup has been postponed.