From near oblivion to Europe - Brighton celebrate 125th anniversary

On 9 November 2023, Brighton manager Roberto de Zerbi addressed his players in Amsterdam before their Europa League tie with Ajax, noting the significant increase in fan support compared to previous years. Brighton fans had previously numbered around 3,000 in the Amsterdam Arena, but there were more than twice that number present in the city, having traveled to support the team.

An official who had dedicated nearly three decades to the club expressed his awe at the club's progress, emphasizing the club's journey from near oblivion to Europe.

In 2007, after years of campaigning, Brighton finally secured planning permission for their new stadium, marking a turning point in the club's history. The club had struggled for years, playing at the Withdean Stadium for 12 years, where capacity had only reached 6,000, despite being formed in 1901. They had spent just seven seasons in Division Two before being promoted to the top flight in 1979.

However, the club faced significant challenges, including the sale of their historic Goldstone Ground in 1995 due to mounting debts. Fans were not consulted, and Brighton was left without a home for two seasons, playing 70 miles away at Gillingham. The club finally returned to the city in 1999 and started playing at Withdean Stadium, which had a capacity of 6,000 at the time.

Former Football Association executive director David Davies, Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott, and former chairman Dick Knight played crucial roles in stabilizing the club after its difficult years. Under their leadership, Brighton experienced a resurgence, with investment from chairman Tony Bloom driving the club into the Premier League. Brighton currently sits fifth in the Premier League after their 10th consecutive season in the top flight, a testament to the club's modern success and the vision of its leadership.