New Delhi: West Ham United is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 15-year-old academy goalkeeper Oscar Fairs, who tragically passed away on Friday after a brave fight against cancer. Diagnosed in August 2023 with a rare brain tumour called ependymoma, Oscar endured multiple surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Despite these efforts, his family was told in early 2024 that palliative care was the only option.
It is with deep and profound sadness that West Ham United confirm the tragic passing of our U15s Academy goalkeeper Oscar Fairs, following his brave battle with cancer.
Rest in peace, brave Oscar.
— West Ham United (@WestHam) December 13, 2024
A GoFundMe campaign raised nearly £100,000 to explore treatment options in France, with support from the footballing world. West Ham players donated £27,000, chairman David Sullivan gave £10,000, and former captain Declan Rice, now at Arsenal, contributed £5,000. Sadly, the young player’s fight ended, leaving the football community in deep grief.
West Ham sporting director Mark Noble shared a touching tribute, describing Oscar as a talented goalkeeper and a kind, well-mannered young man. “Oscar was adored by everyone at the Academy,” Noble said.
The London based club also postponed all academy fixtures for the weekend as a mark of respect, calling Oscar’s loss devastating.“He had a bright future, and it is unimaginably devastating that he has been taken at such a young age.”
The devastating news sparked an outpouring of condolences across the football world. Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and several Premier League clubs, including Brighton, expressed their grief on X, highlighting the impact Oscar had beyond West Ham’s community. Their heartfelt tributes joined thousands of messages from fans and players, mourning a promising life lost too soon.
Rest in peace Oscar 🤍🙏
— Thibaut Courtois (@thibautcourtois) December 13, 2024
Oscar’s passing serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience shown by young players battling life-threatening conditions. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched, both on and off the pitch. West Ham United plans to pay further tributes to ensure his name remains a significant part of the club’s history.
For now, the thoughts of everyone at the club and the footballing world remain with Oscar’s family during this incredibly difficult time. Rest in peace, young Hammer.
Tributes from football clubs and players pour in as West Ham mourns the devastating loss of young goalkeeper Oscar Fairs. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
