Brighton mark 125-year anniversary with fan memories of key moments

Brighton & Hove Albion mark their 125-year anniversary in the 2026-27 season, with fans contacting BBC Radio Sussex to share memories such as Anthony Knockaert’s 2016 free-kick in a 4-0 win over QPR and Leonardo Ulloa’s 2014 goal that sent the Seagulls to the play-off final.

Roger, former sports editor of BBC South Today for 14 years, recalled being on the pitch when Norman Cook was set to sponsor Brighton & Hove Albion. He also remembered a helicopter flight over a farmer’s field that marked the moment the club secured permission to build the Amex Stadium. Roger described the stadium project as a long battle that ultimately left Albion fans looking only forward.

Jake highlighted Anthony Knockaert’s decisive free‑kick in 2016 that helped Brighton & Hove Albion defeat QPR 4-0. He added that he won a half‑time hat‑trick scratchcard worth £50, a prize once sold at the turnstiles. Jake said the memory of that match remains his favourite.

Joe recalled the December 2023 home game against Marseille at the Amex Stadium, describing it as the point where everything clicked for the Seagulls. After a difficult start with a loss in the first group match, Brighton & Hove Albion won four consecutive games, including two victories over Ajax. The run secured top place in a group that also featured Marseille, Ajax and AK Athens.

Matthew’s favourite memory is Leonardo Ulloa’s 2014 goal against Nottingham Forest that propelled Brighton & Hove Albion into the play‑off final. He noted that his Grandad, who passed away in October, celebrated the goal with deafening noise. Matthew recalled having to bury his head into the sofa as the crowd roared.

The collection of fan recollections is available on BBC Sounds, where listeners can press play on the accompanying clip. The audio feature was shared alongside Getty Images photographs.