Fulham Women's Team Protected from Late Owner Fayed, Ex-Manager Reveals

Recent revelations have shed light on the alleged misconduct of Mohamed Fayed, the late owner of Fulham Football Club and Harrods department store. A former manager of Fulham's women's team has disclosed that protective measures were implemented to safeguard players from Fayed's alleged inappropriate behavior.

Gaute Haugenes, who led the team from 2001 to 2003, stated, "We were aware he liked young, blonde girls. So we just made sure that situations couldn't occur. We protected the players." This statement comes in the wake of serious allegations against Fayed, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 94.

Five women have come forward with rape accusations against Fayed, while numerous others have alleged sexual misconduct. These claims have prompted Fulham FC to express deep concern and offer support to potential victims through a dedicated safeguarding email address.

A press conference held on September 20, 2024, revealed the extent of the allegations. Dean Armstrong KC, representing the accusers, highlighted a "systematic failure of corporate responsibility" at Harrods. The legal team now represents 37 of Fayed's accusers, with more individuals coming forward.

One alleged victim, identified as Natacha, shared her harrowing experience: "These private meetings turned into more of a forced kiss, his hands gripping your face to his lips or pulling you down on his lap, where his hands were free to explore any part of your body that he wished."

"These incidents lasted seconds, but the fear instilled left me paralysed."

Fayed's controversial legacy extends beyond these allegations. He was known for his ownership of the Ritz Hotel in Paris and his involvement in the "cash-for-questions" scandal in the 1990s. His time as Fulham FC owner from 1997 to 2013 saw the club reach new heights, including a Europa League final appearance in 2010.

Harrods has accepted vicarious liability for Fayed's conduct, settling claims brought to its attention since 2023. The company has expressed being "utterly appalled" by the allegations and has set up a webpage for former employees to come forward with any information.

These recent developments have reignited scrutiny of Fayed's past, including previous accusations that did not result in charges. As investigations continue, the full extent of Fayed's alleged misconduct and its impact on various entities he was involved with, including Fulham FC, remains to be seen.