Training Camp Turmoil
The scheduled pre‑season training camp in the French Alps was thrown into chaos when helicopters used for security around the G7 summit landed on the training grounds of the Hotel Royal Resort in Evian‑les‑Bains. The unexpected landings scarred the freshly prepared pitches, rendering them unusable and forcing the club to halt its workouts just days before the first friendly.
With the fields compromised, Brighton & Hove Albion cancelled the planned friendly against Annecy and quickly arranged an alternative base in Austria. The squad has been training at their familiar Lancing headquarters and will stage an internal practice match before heading abroad, while a second scheduled friendly against Strasbourg remains on the calendar.
Although the disruption required a rapid reshuffle, club officials stress that the overall preparation schedule for the new Premier League season remains largely intact. Home friendlies against Roma and Bologna are still set for August, the Europa Conference League play‑off first leg is slated for August 20, and the league opener against Aston Villa is scheduled for August 23.
Looking Ahead
The club’s leadership says the episode underscores the need for flexibility, but they are confident that the players will be ready for the competitive fixtures ahead. With the Europa Conference League play‑offs looming and the Premier League campaign just weeks away, the focus is now on maintaining momentum despite the logistical hiccup.