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Parachutist Rescued After Getting Stuck on Stadium Roof Before Rugby Match

A French military parachutist tasked with delivering the match ball became entangled on the roof, delaying the Champions Cup game between Toulouse and Sale Sharks by 40 minutes.

  • The incident occurred during a pre-match stunt involving three parachutists, with the first two landing safely before the third became trapped on the Stadium de Toulouse roof.
  • Emergency responders, stadium staff, and even the Toulouse mascot collaborated to create a makeshift safety zone using tackle pads, post protectors, and an inflatable mat.
  • The parachutist, identified as Captain Yannick Trouille, was safely rescued by firefighters using a cherry picker, with no injuries reported, as the crowd erupted in applause.
  • Spectators seated beneath the dangling parachutist were evacuated, and the game ultimately kicked off 40 minutes later than scheduled, with Toulouse securing a 38-15 victory.
  • The European Professional Club Rugby (EPCR) praised the effective emergency response and announced plans to review safety protocols for future pre-match displays.
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