⚽ Top Story: FA Launches Urgent Safety Review After Tragic Death of Former Arsenal Youth Player
The Football Association (FA) has announced an urgent safety review following the tragic and freak death of 21-year-old Billy Vigar, a former Arsenal youth player, who suffered a fatal brain injury during a non-league match in England.
Vigar, who was playing for Chichester City FC, was injured during a match against Wingate & Finchley FC on Saturday. According to reports, he collided with a brick wall situated dangerously close to the pitch, resulting in a significant brain injury. He was placed in an induced coma but sadly passed away days later.
“We are devastated to hear that Billy Vigar has passed away,” the FA said in a statement. “We send our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, loved ones, and everyone at Chichester City FC at this incredibly difficult time.”
The FA confirmed it will work closely with clubs, leagues, and safety officials to assess the placement of perimeter walls and other fixed structures near pitches in the National League system.
“This will include looking at ways we can assist National League system clubs to identify and implement additional measures at their stadiums that they determine will help to mitigate any potential safety risks,” the FA added.
A petition calling for a ban on brick walls near playing fields has already garnered over 4,000 signatures in just a few days, amplifying pressure on football authorities to address ground safety standards.
Vigar had joined Arsenal’s academy in 2017 and signed as a professional in 2022. He also spent time on loan at Derby County and was widely regarded as a “powerful and versatile forward.”
“Everyone at Arsenal is devastated by the shocking news,” the London club said in a tribute. “Billy was a much-loved member of our academy. He will always be part of the Arsenal family.”
As a mark of respect, Chichester City’s scheduled fixture against Lewes has been postponed. Players across the semi-professional league will wear black armbands, and a minute’s silence will be observed before all matches this weekend.
The incident has reignited concerns around safety in lower-tier football grounds — particularly in non-league stadiums, where infrastructure often falls short of professional standards.
