A Wales fan has died in Qatar while on a trip of a lifetime with his son and friends to watch the team at the World Cup. Kevin Davies, from Pembrokeshire, is reported to have been rushed to Hamad General Hospital in Doha following Wales' match against Iran where he later died.
It is understood to have been a medical incident and that he did not attend the 2-0 defeat but instead remained at his apartment after feeling ill. Football Supporters Association Cymru's Paul Corkrey told the PA news agency: "He was part of the Red Wall and we're all devastated for him and his family. We're all like one big family and we lost one of our family members today."
Mr Corkrey also paid tribute to Mr Davies' son and friends, saying they had been very "brave" in the way they had handled the situation. The British Embassy, Qatari authorities and the Football Association of Wales (FAW), as well as travel company Wonky Sheep, are said to be helping the man's son to make all the necessary preparations and fly home. "Everyone has been very helpful, and everyone who has been asked for help has come through," Mr Corkrey added.
Noel Mooney, chief executive of the FAW, said on Twitter: "So sorry to hear that one of our supporters has passed away here. Our condolences go to the family and of course we are here to support however we can."
The FAW tweeted: "Mae CBDC yn cydymdeimlo efo teulu a ffrindiau Kevin Davies. Our deepest condolences from everyone at the Football Association of Wales. Our thoughts are with Kevin’s family and friends at this sad time. The FAW is in contact with Kevin’s family to help in whatever way we can."
Fan Embassy Wales said: "Unfortunately we have lost one of the Red wall yesterday in Qatar, our sincere condolences go out to his son here in Doha and his family back in Wales. May he rest in peace." A Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) spokesman said: "We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in Qatar."
Officials believe more than 2,500 Wales fans have made the trip to Qatar for the tournament.
Their numbers have been bolstered by fans already in the region arriving on shuttle flights to watch Wales take part in a World Cup for the first time since 1958.
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