'One of the nuttiest things' - Rugby match delayed as military parachutist rescued by firefighters

‘One of the nuttiest things’ – Rugby match delayed as military parachutist rescued by firefighters

Firefighters were forced to save the day after a pre-match routine resulted in a 40-minute delay in the Champions Cup on Sunday.

The last 16 tie between Toulouse and Sale was held up after a military parachutist got caught on the roof of the Stadium de Toulouse.

4 Toulouse's clash with Sale was delayed after a military parachutist got caught in the roof Credit: Rex

4 Kick-off was pushed back as the parachutist precariously dangled over the stands Credit: Rex

Prior to kick-off, three military parachutists landed on the pitch in France.

However, one more serviceperson was left dangling from the roof of the arena after their parachute got stuck in the roof.

The chaotic scenes prompted kick-off to be pushed back from the scheduled start time of 3pm, UK time.

Meanwhile, fans were cleared from the seats underneath where the parachutist was stuck.

Tackle pads were then laid down to form a landing pad whilst firefighters were called.

A bouncy castle was even brought in from outside the stadium in case the parachutist fell.

After half an hour, firefighters arrived on the scene, with some heading to the roof to assess the situation.

Others were raised into the air to rescue the parachutist, who waved to the crowd.

Fans were left stunned by the chaotic scenes ahead of kick-off at the 33,150-capacity arena.

Toulouse usually play at the smaller Stade Ernest Wallon, but hold their bigger fixtures at the home of the city's football club with the same name.

4 Seats were cleared as firefighters worked to rescue the parachutist Credit: Rex

4 The parachuter had been part of a pre-match routine at the Stadium de Toulouse Credit: Rex

Reacting on X, one fan wrote: "Loudest cheer of the weekend as the fire service arrive to get him down after almost half an hour. One of the nuttiest things to ever happen at a rugby match."

Another also commented: "Carnage. Only in France."

After the parachutist was finally rescued from the roof, the match got underway at around 3:40pm.

However, their efforts to pump up the crowd were initially unable to inspire the Toulouse players on the pitch.

Instead, Sale established a five-point half-time lead as tries from Jonny Hill and Luke James put the visitors 15-10 ahead.

A quick start to the second period saw Toulouse take the lead, though, as Francois Cros dotted down for a try.

England rugby Captain Maro Itoje names his dream location if England leave Twickenham

The French side then extended their advantage to secure a 38-15 win to advance to the quarter-finals of this season's Champions Cup.

Toulon await them in the next round, with the French side to host the last eight clash next weekend.

Click here to read article