AFTV regular Claude Callegari dies, his family confirms

AFTV favourite Claude Callegari has sadly died, aged 58, his family has confirmed.

The celebrity Arsenal fan became known for his passionate rants on the Gunners during the meteoric rise of the YouTube channel.

A statement from fellow Arsenal fans Terry and Diesel on Claude and the Bansta’s read: “We can’t believe we are writing this, with permission from Claude’s father, it is with great sadness and a broken heart that we have to announce that our dear friend and legend Claude sadly passed away yesterday afternoon 29th March.”

Tributes quickly came in for the fan favourite from the football community, with AFTV founder and presenter Robbie Lyle writing: “Claude had a heart of gold. I remember when he joined me on my walk around London Premier League grounds to raise money and awareness for Prostate Cancer UK. I didn’t have to ask him he just came. RIP Claude.”

Troopz, one of AFTV’s most famous contributors, wrote on Instagram: “You showed me love from the get go, made my misses feel comfortable when she came to events and always shows my kids love. I hope you are finally at peace godfather. RIP Legend.”

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Another AFTV contributor Mr DT wrote: “I don’t even know what to think of the news that I got today. Clause always said I was a younger version of him, a fiery and passionate Arsenal fan who wouldn’t back down. I really hope you have your peace now Claude, rest easy to the Godfather of AFTV.”

James B, a presenter for AFTV, wrote: “Really sad news about Claude. A true YouTube and Arsenal fan legend - loved by many. May he rest in peace.”

Another Gunners fan wrote: “RIP Claude. A legend amongst us all, gone too soon. Fly high my Brother.”

While one supporter added: “Genuinely devastated. Gone too soon. One of the rare Internet personalities I really looked forward to watch. Such a shame. Rest in peace Don Claude.”

The news has seen rival teams’ fan channels have come together to pay tribute, including West Ham Fan TV, who wrote: “Very sad to hear that Claude has passed away, We have worked together quite a few times & always loved the Banter we had when doing match previews. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all his family and friends at this sad time. RIP Claude”