A security guard has died after a fall at the World Cup’s Lusail Stadium on Tuesday. Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images
A security guard at the World Cup’s Lusail Stadium in Qatar died on Tuesday after suffering a fall while on duty, tournament organisers the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy said on Wednesday.
The statement said John Njau Kibue suffered the fall on Saturday. It added that medical teams immediately attended the scene and provided emergency treatment before he was transferred to Hamad Medical Hospital’s intensive care unit via ambulance.
CNN reported he was from Kenya and was 24.
“We regret to announce that, despite the efforts of the medical team, he sadly passed away in hospital on Tuesday Dec. 13, after being in the intensive care unit for three days,” the statement said.
“His next of kin have been informed. We send our sincere condolences to his family, colleagues and friends during this difficult time.”
The organisers said they are investigating the circumstances leading to the fall “as a matter of urgency” and would provide further information pending the outcome of the investigation.
“We will also ensure that his family receive all outstanding dues and monies owed,” the statement added.
FIFA issued a statement on Wednesday which said the governing body is in “constant contact” with local authorities investigating the incident.
“FIFA is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of John Njau Kibue a security guard employed to work at Lusail Stadium as a result of injuries suffered in an accident on Dec. 10 of 2022,” the statement said.
“Our thoughts and sympathies are with his loved ones at this sad time. FIFA remains in constant contact with local authorities who are investigating the circumstances leading to this tragic incident and will work with its Qatari counterparts to ensure that his family receives all outstanding dues and monies owed.”
Last week, Qatar launched a worker safety investigation into the death of a Filipino following reports that the man died while working at a training site during the World Cup.
The World Cup final will be staged at the Lusail Stadium on Sunday, with Argentina facing the winners of the semifinal between France and Morocco being played later on Wednesday.