Fiszman, ‘Visionary Director and True Arsenal Fan’ Dies Aged 66

April 14, 2011

It was announced yesterday, March 13, that former Arsenal board member, Danny Fiszman had died aged 66, after a protracted battle with throat cancer.

Fiszman, who made his fortune as a diamond dealer, was best known for his crucial role at Arsenal soccer club, of whom he was a lifelong fan, and first joined the board in 1992.

He first acquired his original 8 per cent stake in the North London club from then vice-chairman David Dein and played an instrumental role in the side’s relocation from Highbury to Ashburton Grove, now known as the Emirates Stadium.

In 2007 he became the majority shareholder in the Premier League club, from which point he drove the move and construction of the fantastic 60,000 all-seater stadium despite Dein having been known to favour a switch to King’s Cross or the restored Wembley.

Having increased his stake in the club to a high of 33 per cent, he sold a block of 659 shares to American Stan Kroenke, the man to whom he relinquished his eventual 16 per cent shares just days before the tragic news of his death.

Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood has described Danny as a “visionary director, gentleman and true Arsenal fan,” adding: “We are all deeply saddened by the loss of our dear friend Danny. His voice, wisdom and presence around the club he so dearly loved will be sorely missed.

“Arsenal will forever be indebted to Danny for his invaluable foresight and contribution during the move from Highbury to our new stadium.

“Our thoughts at this time are with Danny’s wife Sally, family and friends. We have lost a much-loved husband, father, grandfather and friend.”

iSportconnect advisory board member, Michael Cunnah added: “It was very sad to hear that Danny passed away yesterday. Danny was a driving force behind Arsenal and the move to the new stadium.

“Whenever I met him, usually at a game at Highbury and then The Emirates, Danny was very charming, always making time to welcome you to his Board room.”

From the entire team and membership at iSportconnect we send our whole-hearted condolences and best wishes to his family following this saddening news.