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Geoffrey Richmond, the former Bradford City chairman who oversaw their rise to the Premier League in the 1990s, has died at the age of 85. He was born in Leeds and took over the Bantams in 1994, where his first act was to clear £2.3million in debts. He oversaw the club's most successful period, earning promotion to England's top flight in 1999.
Bradford managed to secure survival in their first Premier League season but were eventually relegated in 2001. They went into administration the following year, leading to Richmond's resignation after losing the confidence of supporters.
He died on Friday and the news was announced on Sunday, with Bradford issuing an official club statement.
It read: "Former Bradford City AFC chairman Geoffrey Richmond has passed away at the age of 85. Geoffrey served as Bradford City chairman for eight years, from 1994 to 2002.
"During that period, the Bantams made their first Wembley appearance in 1996. Goals from Des Hamilton and Mark Stallard secured promotion to the First Division, with victory over Notts County at the national stadium.
Former Bradford City AFC chairman Geoffrey Richmond has sadly passed away. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time. #BCAFC https://t.co/RWUQ02TVWm
— Bradford City AFC (@officialbantams) November 1, 2026
"Just a few years later, in 1999, City reached the Premier League and famously survived on the final day thanks to David Weatherall’s decisive finish against Liverpool.
"Geoffrey’s time as custodian of the club also included a European campaign, with the Bantams reaching the semi-finals of the UEFA Intertoto Cup in 2000/01.
"Geoffrey played an important role in the redevelopment of the Main Stand, Kop and Midland Road Stand at Valley Parade.
"The thoughts of everyone at Bradford City AFC are with Geoffrey’s family and friends at this difficult time."
Bradford fans have been paying tribute to Richmond on X (formerly Twitter), with @Parko1903 writing: "The only owner to have the minerals to do what he said he’d do."
@nofishnoddy added: "The man that made it happen, thanks for many happy memories. As Kammy once said, unbelievable Geoff. Thoughts and prayers for the family."
@PJ_Butcherio said: "The only man who’s been in charge of the club who allowed us all to dream and made the previously impossible possible.
"Sat in the Bradford End for £1 at his first game in charge vs Hartlepool & he told us all he’d have us in the Prem within five years. He stayed true to his word."
@oldcornc posted: "Sad to hear of the passing of Geoffrey Richmond. Simply put, the most influential owner our club ever had, for good and bad.
"Took us to dizzy heights then back to the depths. Still wouldn’t change 1995-2000 though. Thanks for the journey Mr Richmond."
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