Aston Villa FC have paid tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne at their first match of the season, following the rock legend’s death at the age of 76
Following the sad passing of rock legend Ozzy Osbourne on 22 July, Aston Villa FC paid their respects at their first match of the football season. The Black Sabbath frontman, known to fans for his final performance at Villa Park just days before his death at 76, was honoured by the club.
At today’s home game against Newcastle (16 August), a touching video tribute was played prior to the 12.30pm kick-off. Both teams emerged to footage of the icon performing ‘Crazy Train’ at the Back To The Beginning Show.
Additionally, Bostin’ Brass, the band that performed at Ozzy’s funeral procession in Birmingham, were present to play brass-style renditions of his biggest hits. A condolence book was also made available for fans to sign in the club shop.
The official matchday programme featured an illustration of Ozzy ascending the steps of the ground, donning a No. 9 shirt with his name emblazoned above it.
Ozzy’s affinity for Aston Villa originated from his upbringing in Birmingham, specifically in the suburb of Aston, merely a mile away from Villa Park. He shared with The Athletic in 2024: “I was born in Aston and spent my childhood watching carloads of people going to the Villa football matches.”, reports the Mirror.
This isn’t the first time the club has commemorated Ozzy, as they’ve previously commissioned a mural of him outside the stadium. It depicts the performer with his mouth agape, sporting his signature round sunglasses, accompanied by the inscription “Ozzy forever”.
Following his passing, Aston Villa posted on their Instagram page: “Aston Villa Football Club is saddened to learn that world-renowned rockstar and Villan, Ozzy Osbourne has padded away.
“Growing up in Aston, not far from Villa Park, Ozzy always held a special connection to the club and the community he came from. The thoughts of everyone at Aston Villa are with his wife Sharon, his family, friends, and countless fans at this extremely difficult time. Rest in peace, Ozzy.”
Supporters rushed to the comments section to share their own tributes, with one fan proposing: “Retire one seat out of the stadium and paint it black. RIP Ozzy.”
Another person endorsed the idea: “I just saw someone say retire one seat and paint it black, I agree but add bats in purple on it.”
Ozzy’s cause of death was disclosed on 5 August, with his death certificate confirming that the Prince of Darkness died following an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, acute myocardial infarction, coronary artery disease and Parkinson’s disease with autonomic dysfunction (joint causes).
His profession was recorded as “rock legend, songwriter and performer.”
