Grant Wahl, a well-known soccer reporter, died when he passed out during a game in Qatar. He was 48. His brother Eric Wahl told the news on Friday night that the journalist had died and he said he thinks it was because of foul play.
“My name is Eric Wahl. I live in Seattle, Washington, I am Grant Wahl’s brother,” he said via Instagram. “I am gay, I am the reason he wore the rainbow shirt to the World Cup. My brother was healthy, he told me he received death threats. I do not believe my brother just died. I believe he was killed, and I just beg for any help.”
Céline Gounder, who is married to Wahl, said she is “completely shocked.” She posted a tweet as news of Gahl’s death spread, “I am so thankful for the support of my husband @GrantWahl’s soccer family & of so many friends who’ve reached out tonight. I’m in complete shock.”
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The journalist said he had bronchitis on the most recent episode of his podcast, Ftbol with Grant Wahl. He was talking about the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
“My body told me, even after the U.S. went out, ‘Dude you are not sleeping enough.’ It rebelled on me.” He said he went to the clinic at the media centre for the games twice, and even though he was feeling better, he had to cancel everything for Thursday.
I am shocked and saddened by the devastating news of Grant Wahl’s passing.
My most heartfelt condolences to his family. He was an incredibly kind person who will be missed.
Rest In Piece, my friend 🙏🏼
— herculez gomez (@herculezg) December 10, 2022
U.S. Soccer released a statement via Twitter and said, “The entire U.S. Soccer family is heartbroken to learn that we have lost Grant Wahl. Fans of soccer and journalism of the highest quality knew we could always count on Grant to deliver insightful and entertaining stories about our game, and it’s major protagonists: teams, players, coaches and the many personalities that make soccer unlike any sport.”
The organization honored Wahl stating that his “passion for soccer and commitment to elevating its profile across our sporting landscape played a major role in helping to drive interest in and respect for our beautiful game.”
I am at a loss for words…. Grant Wahl was more than just *THE* soccer guy….. he was extremely kind and welcoming to everyone in the soccer world and most importantly- he was brave and when people didn’t have a voice he raised his for them.
— Rachel Bonnetta (@rachelbonnetta) December 10, 2022
It went on to praise another trait of Wahl’s saying, “Grant’s belief in the power of the game to advance human rights was and will remain an inspiration to all.”
U.S. Soccer ended by sending Wahl’s family condolences and saying, “His writing and the stories he told will live on.” Follow us only on Lee Daily for more news like this.
