Wolves release statement on Ethan McLeod’s death as tributes pour in | Football | Sport

Wolverhampton Wanderers have released a statement following the death of the club’s former academy player Ethan McLeod in a car crash. The 21‑year‑old was driving home after Macclesfield FC’s match at Bedford Town when he was involved in a fatal crash. The National League North outfit announced the tragic news on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday.

In a statement on social media, Wolves said: “We are heartbroken by the tragic passing of Ethan McLeod at the age of 21. Ethan joined Wolves academy at seven-years-old and went on to sign professional terms at the club, before leaving in September 2024. We are sending our thoughts and love to Ethan’s family, friends and everyone at Macclesfield.

“Ethan’s younger brother Conor is currently in our U21s squad and the whole club will be providing care and support to him and his family. We will observe a minute’s silence at Saturday’s first-team fixture against Brentford, to remember and honour Ethan.”

The collision, at 10.40pm on Tuesday night, shut the M1 for over eight hours. Police are now urging anybody with information or dashcam footage to contact them.

A statement released by Macclesfield, meanwhile, read: “With the heaviest of hearts and an overwhelming sense of surrealism that Macclesfield FC can confirm the passing of 21-year-old forward Ethan McLeod. Travelling back from Bedford Town last night, Ethan was involved in a car accident on the M1 which tragically took his life. Ethan was an incredibly talented and well-respected member of our first-team squad, who had his whole life ahead of him.

“But more than that, Ethan’s infectious personality endeared him to everyone that he came into contact with. In giving his all in everything he did, Ethan effortlessly pushed us all to be the best we can be – both on and off the pitch. Ethan’s professionalism and unwavering work-ethic inspired everyone, and his lust for life put smiles on all our faces – even on the darkest of days. News of Ethan’s passing has devastated our entire club and no words can convey the immense sense of sadness and loss that we feel now.

“The deep mental scars elicited from Ethan’s passing will undeniably never heal – but one thing is for sure, and that is Ethan’s vibrant legacy will never fade, no matter how much time passes in the future. Ethan will live in our hearts and minds forevermore and no matter what the future holds, his unique smile that mesmerised us all will never be forgotten. Our deepest sympathy goes out to Ethan’s family and friends at this deeply traumatic time, together with an assurance that we will provide as much support as we can to those who need it. May you rest in peace Ethan – you will forever be a Silkman.”

Other clubs paid tribute to McLeod in response to Macclesfield’s post on X. Crystal Palace said: “Our thoughts are with Ethan’s family, friends and everyone connected with Macclesfield at this very sad time. Rest in peace, Ethan.”

Stourbridge FC, McLeod’s former team, posted on X: “We are devastated to learn of the passing of former Glassboys’ forward Ethan McLeod last night. Our thoughts are with Ethan’s family, friends, everyone at Macclesfield and all who knew him. Rest in peace, Ethan.”