Al-Fayed Allegations: Fulham Launches Investigation After BBC Documentary | OneFootball

Fulham Investigates Potential Impact of Mohamed Al-Fayed Allegations on the Club

Fulham Football Club has launched an internal investigation to determine whether any individuals associated with the club may have been affected by the serious allegations made against its former owner, Mohamed Al-Fayed. The claims, which have come to light following a BBC documentary titled Al-Fayed: Predator at Harrods, involve over 20 women who accused the late Egyptian businessman of sexual abuse during his ownership of Harrods and the Ritz hotel. Al-Fayed, who passed away last year at the age of 94, allegedly committed these abuses in London, Paris, and St. Tropez.

The documentary, aired on Thursday night, has prompted Fulham to publicly address the disturbing reports and commit to a thorough investigation into whether any wrongdoing might have taken place within the club during Al-Fayed’s ownership. The club has stated that they are “in the process of establishing whether anyone at the club is, or has been, affected” by these allegations.

Al-Fayed’s Legacy at Fulham

Mohamed Al-Fayed is well-known for his role in transforming Fulham Football Club. He purchased the club in 1997 with the ambition of leading them to the Premier League—a goal he successfully realised in 2001. During his tenure as owner, Al-Fayed invested significantly in the club, overseeing a period of growth that saw Fulham establish themselves in English football’s top tier.

However, Al-Fayed’s legacy is now overshadowed by these allegations of sexual abuse, which date back to his time at Harrods and the Ritz. Fulham’s current ownership, under Shahid Khan, who bought the club from Al-Fayed in 2013, has made it clear that the club is taking these claims seriously.

In a statement, the club said: “We are deeply troubled and concerned to learn of the disturbing reports following yesterday’s documentary. We have sincere empathy for the women who have shared their experiences.”

Investigations Continue

Fulham’s commitment to uncovering any potential connections between the club and the allegations is part of a wider investigation into Al-Fayed’s activities. While the club has not been directly linked to the allegations made in the documentary, they have opened channels for anyone affected to come forward. The club has encouraged individuals with relevant information to contact them or the authorities, stating: “Should any person wish to share information or experiences relating to these allegations, we encourage them to contact the club at safeguarding@fulhamfc.com or the police.”

During a press conference held by the legal team representing the victims, barrister Maria Mulla addressed the potential for further investigations into Al-Fayed’s other business interests, including Fulham Football Club. “We don’t at this stage represent any women who, for instance, sustained attacks at Fulham Football Club. But our investigations are obviously ongoing into all these entities that he had an involvement in.”

Photo: IMAGO

These ongoing investigations are exploring possible links between Al-Fayed’s various enterprises and the allegations. While no direct connection has yet been established between Fulham and the abuses described in the documentary, the club remains committed to ensuring transparency and safeguarding the wellbeing of anyone who may have been affected.

Impact on Fulham’s Current Ownership

Shahid Khan, the current owner of Fulham, purchased the club from Al-Fayed in 2013, ending the Egyptian tycoon’s 16-year reign. Khan has led Fulham through another era of development, with the club maintaining its status in English football, but the shadow of Al-Fayed’s ownership lingers in light of these allegations.

Khan’s Fulham has distanced itself from the controversy surrounding its former owner by proactively addressing the situation. The club’s actions signal a clear intention to cooperate fully with any investigations and to provide a safe platform for individuals to come forward.

As part of the wider football community, Fulham’s handling of these allegations could set a precedent for how clubs deal with historical links to serious accusations against former owners or staff. The club’s priority is to ensure the wellbeing of any individuals who might have been affected and to uphold its reputation as a responsible organisation.

What Lies Ahead

The investigation into Mohamed Al-Fayed’s conduct is far from over, and Fulham Football Club’s role, if any, remains unclear. While the focus of the allegations so far has been on his time at Harrods and the Ritz, the legal teams involved continue to explore whether there are other locations where abuses may have occurred.

Fulham’s swift response to the documentary reflects the club’s awareness of the seriousness of the situation and its desire to maintain transparency throughout the process. For many, Al-Fayed’s time at the helm of Fulham is remembered for the positive impact he had on the club, but these allegations could reshape that narrative.

It is now a waiting game to see if any new evidence will come to light that implicates the football club or its employees in the allegations against Al-Fayed. For now, Fulham remains committed to supporting anyone who may have been affected, while also ensuring that the truth is uncovered through a full and thorough investigation.