The kickoff of a European Rugby Champions Cup match in Toulouse was delayed by 40 minutes after a parachutist delivering the match ball became entangled on the stadium roof.
During his descent, the parachutist’s blue-and-white canopy snagged on part of the roof, leaving him suspended approximately 15 meters above spectators.
Several videos shared on X (formerly Twitter) captured the dramatic scene as two firefighters used an extended ladder from their truck to reach the stranded parachutist, who was reportedly a member of the French military.
Fortunately, he appeared uninjured and assisted the rescue team in freeing the parachute. The crowd erupted in cheers upon seeing he was safe.
Once the final section of the parachute was pulled free, the firefighters received a rousing ovation and responded by energizing the crowd further.
Following the successful rescue, Toulouse’s match against English side Sale Sharks proceeded as planned, albeit after a significant delay.
Image credit: © Valentine Chapuis, AFP
