Talented British footballer, 25, dies as club ‘devastated’ by tragedy | Football | Sport
Ioan Evans died at the age of 25. (Image: Facebook/Afan Lido FC)
The football community is grieving following the tragic death of Afan Lido FC player Ioan Evans, aged just 25. The JD Cymru South club confirmed the devastating news, expressing their profound sorrow and struggling to articulate their grief. Welshman Evans had played for the club as recently as Friday night, in a match against Pontypridd United.
“With the heaviest of hearts everyone at Afan Lido FC is devastated to learn of the tragic passing of Ioan Evans,” read a statement from the club. “We don’t really have the words to adequately express our grief at this time. Ioan loved being a Lido player, a committed club man, and he was immensely popular with everybody. He had time for everyone and a few words with Ioan were guaranteed to put a smile on your face.”
“He was the smallest man in the room who had the biggest impact on those around him. We will be providing support to his teammates and a book of condolence will be opened in the club for anyone wishing to share memories and pay their respects.
“Our thoughts are with Ioan’s family and friends at this extremely sad time. Rest in peace, Ioan. You will always be remembered.”
Evans, a Rhondda native, studied at Cardiff Met University and made his JD Cymru Premier debut for the Archers against Llanelli Town in April 2019. He was part of the squad that season when Cardiff Met famously beat Bala Town on penalties in the play-off final, securing their first-ever European qualification.
In October 2020, he moved to Afan Lido, making his debut against Risca United in the Nathaniel MG Cup two months later. With 127 appearances and 16 goals, Evans became one of the club’s longest-serving players.
A regular starter and consistently high performer, he captained the team several times and was named both the manager’s player of the year and the players’ player of the year last season.
The Football Association of Wales and JD Cymru Leagues expressed their sorrow, writing: “Everyone at the JD Cymru Leagues and Football Association of Wales is devastated to learn of the passing of Afan Lido player Ioan Evans.
“Our sincerest condolences go to Ioan’s family, friends and everyone at Afan Lido FC. He will always be remembered. Cwsg mewn hedd, Ioan.”
With the heaviest of hearts everyone at Afan Lido FC is devastated to learn of the tragic passing of Ioan Evans.
We don’t really have the words to adequately express our grief at this time.
Ioan loved being a Lido player, a committed club man, and he was immensely popular. pic.twitter.com/VExTfVgmf9
— Afan Lido F.C. (@CPDLidoAfan) February 2, 2026
Tributes poured in from clubs across the Welsh football pyramid as news of Evans’ death spread.
Barry Town United shared their condolences, sharing: “Everyone from Barry Town United sends their deepest condolences. All our thoughts with the club, his family and friends. A fantastic young man and a credit to your club!”.
Haverfordwest County added: “Such tragic news. The thoughts of everyone at Haverfordwest County AFC are with Ioan’s friends, family and all at Afan Lido FC at this terribly sad time. Rest in peace, Ioan.”
Goytre United paid tribute to him as “an excellent footballer, a tremendous person and a credit to your club,” noting: “He will be truly missed by the football community.”
Prestatyn Town, Ynyshir Albions, Treowen Stars, Ammanford AFC and Cefn Cribwr FC were amongst numerous other clubs offering sincere messages of sympathy and support.
The Welsh Blood Service League Cup match between Newport City and Afan Lido, due to take place on Friday, February 7, has been postponed out of respect.
