UEFA mourns Leicester City owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha

UEFA and European football have offered their deepest sympathies to Leicester City following the tragic death of club chairman Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha in a helicopter accident outside the Premier League club's stadium on Saturday. The 61-year-old was one of three passengers aboard who lost their lives, along with two crew members.

Expressing his condolences, UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin said: "UEFA and European football is deeply saddened to hear of the tragic deaths of the owner of Leicester City, Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, and the other four people who lost their lives.”

“During his time as owner of the club, Leicester City won the English Premier League title in 2016, and reached the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League the following year, which saw them finish top of their group.

“This was a fantastic achievement, because it underlined the fact that football is an unpredictable game, capable of producing the most unexpected surprises. Everyone involved with Leicester City, especially the club’s fans, shared unforgettable joy at the team’s remarkable feat.

“We extend our deepest sympathy to Mr Srivaddhanaprabha’s family and friends, and to Leicester City at this sad time.”

The Thai businessman took over Leicester in 2010, and was a popular figure among supporters, having overseen the club's remarkable Premier League title victory in 2015/16.

The following season saw Leicester embark on a highly successful run to the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals. The Foxes topped their group with 13 points, before defeating Sevilla FC in the round of 16, only to narrowly lose against Club Atlético de Madrid in the last eight.

A minute's silence was held at all three Premier League games on Sunday.