WATCH: Rugby fans hold their breath as parachutist rescued after roof crash in France

Published on Authored by The Free Press Journal

A Champions Cup rugby match featuring Toulouse and Sale Sharks in France witnessed a scary moment when a parachutist dramatically crashed onto the roof of the stadium.

Parachutist rescued in France
The parachutist dangled for 30 minutes before being rescued. Photo courtesy: Tight Five Rugby/X

The incident left fans on edge as he clung to his parachute for dear life. The video of the incident has now gone viral on social media.

The match ball was all set to be delivered by parachute as three parachutists made their way into the Stadium de Toulouse.

While two landed safely on the pitch, the third, identified as Trouille Yannick, misjudged his descent, and his parachute got trapped on the roof.

For a nerve-wracking 30 minutes, Yannick was left dangling 50 feet above the ground as spectators were evacuated from the seats below for safety. Staff members quickly brought in rugby post protectors and a giant inflatable to cushion a potential fall, while a fire engine arrived to assist.

As the tension built, fans anxiously watched as rescuers hoisted a ladder to save the parachutist, finally bringing him to the ground safely.

The crowd erupted in applause, and the national anthem, La Marseillaise, rang out in celebration once Yannick was rescued, leaving him shaken but unharmed.

Toulouse was eyeing a sixth European crown and entered as favourites. The Ugo Mola-coached side ultimately overcame Alex Sanderson’s men 38-15 in a spirited game.

The English visitors led 15-10 at half-time, but second-half tries from Francois Cros, Julien Marchand, Ange Capuozzo and Guillaume Cramont powered the reigning champions through.

(The article is published under a mutual content partnership arrangement between The Free Press Journal and Connected to India)