Allegations of Abuse Against Fulham’s Former Owner Come to Light

Ronnie Gibbons, former captain of Fulham Ladies, has come forward with allegations of sexual assault against Mohamed Al Fayed, the late owner of Fulham Football Club. Gibbons, who broke her silence in an interview with The Athletic, detailed incidents that allegedly occurred in 2000 when she was a 20-year-old professional footballer.

According to Gibbons, on two separate occasions, Al Fayed attempted to force himself upon her in a room above the renowned Harrods department store in Knightsbridge, central London. She recounted an instance where he attempted to kiss her forcefully and groped her when she tried to escape. “He held my arms, pulled me in and tried to kiss me on the mouth,” Gibbons recalled. These claims form part of a broader complaint against Al Fayed, with forty women having approached the Metropolitan Police with similar accusations dating between 1979 and 2013.

Gibbons revealed she felt compelled to remain silent at the time to protect her career and the newly professional women’s team. Her testimonial is the first from a Fulham footballer related to Al Fayed’s alleged inappropriate conduct. Gibbons stated, “Speaking my truth and finally telling my story will hopefully help me heal and be rid of the shame, embarrassment, and pain I have carried for years.”

Mohamed Al Fayed, who owned Fulham FC from 1997 until 2013, passed away in 2023. Despite prior reports from 21 women, a BBC documentary released last month brought further allegations of rape and sexual assault to light. Al Fayed was also known for his ownership of Harrods, where many allegations are said to have taken place.

In a statement, representatives of Fulham Football Club expressed their distress at the experiences shared by Gibbons. The club stated, “Fulham is profoundly troubled to learn of the experiences told today by former women’s team captain Ronnie Gibbons. She has our deepest empathy and support.” Harrods issued a statement condemning Al Fayed’s actions, describing them as an abuse of power. They apologized for any failures to his victims during his time at the luxury department store.

The revelations have sparked renewed scrutiny of the environments fostered by Al Fayed, as calls for justice for the alleged victims intensify. Fulham FC has urged any individuals affected by the revelations to come forward, assuring them of their support and cooperation with law enforcement.