Claude Callegari’s family issue statement following tragic death of Arsenal Fan TV star

Claude Callegari’s family confirmed that the Arsenal fan died of natural causes.

The 58-year-old passed away suddenly on Monday, sending shockwaves through the online football community.

Callegari was a regular favourite on AFTV – previously known as Arsenal Fan TV.

And in a statement posted to the AFTV Twitter page, his family confirmed that he passed away from natural causes relating to his health.

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“My family and I would like to thank everyone for their ongoing support and kind words during this extremely distressing time,” the statement read.

“I am now able to officially confirm that my father passed away from natural causes relating to his health.

“I hope this will ensure an end to any speculation regarding the matter and our privacy can continue to be respected whilst we make arrangements for his funeral. Thank you.”

The loyal Gunners fan had been ever-present at Arsenal games for a number of years, and travelled around the world to support the Gunners.

He was known for being interviewed by AFTV founder Robbie Lyle after games, and started up his own YouTube page in 2020 named ‘Claude and the Bantsas’, where he would discuss Arsenal.

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Tributes poured in for Callegari after his death, with Gunners hero Ian Wright posting: “RIP Claude,” with a heart emoji in response to the tragic announcement.

Arsenal even posted a message on their official Twitter account, writing: “Sending our condolences to Claude’s family, friends and everyone who cherished him. His passion for the club was undeniable and he will be missed.”

And Lyle paid tribute to Callegari, praising him for having a “heart of gold”.

Lyle said: “Sadly he’s passed away, and I’m absolutely gutted.

“Everybody here at AFTV, every Arsenal fan, and football fans around the world, will be gutted and devastated.

“Claude wasn’t perfect, right. None of us are perfect. But Claude, one thing I can say to you about that guy is he had a heart of gold.”