Lü Fan, a behind-the-scenes director, broadcast director, and photographer for the Chinese grassroots youth football project “中国足球小将,” died on September 23, 2026, following a traffic accident and unsuccessful emergency medical treatment. News of his death was confirmed publicly on September 25, 2026, by multiple sources, including the project’s official social media accounts and well-known football commentator Dong Lu.
Tragic Loss for Chinese Youth Football Media
Lü Fan worked for years in football media production as an employee of Beijing Lebo Football Culture Communication Co., Ltd., handling camera work, video editing, directing, and daily coverage for the youth training initiative. A close friend who maintained a ten-year acquaintance with Lü confirmed the fatality to reporters on the evening of September 25, expressing profound grief over the sudden accident. Lebo Football issued a formal obituary stating that despite all emergency efforts, Lü succumbed to his injuries in the early hours of September 23.
Commentator Dong Lu, who founded the youth project, posted a tribute on his personal social media account on September 25, writing, “Brother, rest in peace! Those years we fought and struggled together for our ideals remain in the rivers and mountains.” The official “中国足球小将” accounts and other colleagues also shared tributes bidding him farewell.
A Passion Beyond the Pitch: Music and Creative Work
Outside of his demanding schedule filming training sessions and documenting matches for the youth squad, Lü maintained an active passion for music. Having previously studied abroad in the United Kingdom, he composed and released his own original music. This June, when the “中国足球小将” team traveled internationally to win the SIGISMONDI International Youth Cup in Italy, Lü released an original song titled “Self” to encourage the young players.
Friends and colleagues noted that his artistic talents extended across both sports broadcasting and musical composition, leaving a lasting mark on those who worked alongside him. “May there be football and music, which you loved, in heaven,” his longtime friend wrote in a tribute shared online. “Your works and talent will remain in our memories forever.”
Funeral Arrangements and Memorial Services
According to the official obituary released by Beijing Lebo Football Culture Communication Co., Ltd., the company is assisting Lü’s family with all necessary arrangements. A formal farewell and memorial ceremony is scheduled for the morning of September 27 at the Bamboo Hall of the Babaoshan Funeral Parlor in Beijing.
