Alex Hughes, son of Mark Hughes, dies of sudden adult death syndrome

Alex Hughes, 38, the son of former Wales and Manchester United striker Mark Hughes, collapsed in his bedroom on 19 June 2026 in Prestbury, Cheshire. A UK forensic court concluded his death was caused by Sudden Adult Death Syndrome (SADS), a natural cardiac condition, with no drugs, alcohol or external factors detected. His two children found him; the older son, Sebastian, attempted CPR but could not revive him.

Mark Hughes and his wife Jill issued a statement expressing deep grief, describing Alex as a wonderful son and devoted father. A funeral was held at St Peter’s Church in Prestbury, attended by notable football figures such as Sir Alex Ferguson, Ryan Giggs and Bryan Robson. Grimsby Town, where Alex worked in recruitment, also paid tribute.