Staff Reporter
BULAWAYO – Six Highlanders Football Club supporters died in a road accident on Sunday after travelling to Barbourfields Stadium to watch their team’s Castle Lager Premier Soccer League encounter against Herentals FC.
The supporters were returning to Filabusi when the accident occurred about 15 kilometres from the town.
In a statement, Highlanders Football Club said it was deeply saddened by the loss of the supporters, describing them as members of its “100-year family”.
“The President, Board of Directors, Executive Committee, Secretariat, Technical Team, players, members and supporters of Highlanders Football Club announce the tragic passing of six of our beloved supporters in a road accident on Sunday, 23 August 2026,” the club said.
The supporters had travelled to Bulawayo to back Highlanders in their league match before tragedy struck on their journey home.
The club extended its condolences to the bereaved families, relatives and friends, saying the deceased had demonstrated their loyalty and commitment to Highlanders.
“These supporters travelled in the true spirit of Highlanders, with love, loyalty and pride for the Club. They were part of our 100-year family, and their absence will be deeply felt on the terraces of Barbourfields Stadium,” the club said.
Several other supporters were injured in the accident.
Four of the injured were admitted to Filabusi Hospital, while another was reported to be in critical condition and receiving treatment at United Bulawayo Hospitals in Bulawayo.
Highlanders also expressed gratitude to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, emergency services, health institutions and other stakeholders who responded to the accident and assisted the affected families.
“We also wish a speedy recovery to those who were injured and are currently receiving treatment,” the club said.
The tragedy has cast a pall over the Highlanders family, with the club saying it would stand with the bereaved families during the difficult period.
“Highlanders Football Club is your family. We are with you,” the club said.
The club appealed for unity and support for the affected families as they mourned their loved ones.
“May the souls of our departed supporters rest in eternal peace,” it said.
