FA Plans Safety Review After Death of Ex-Arsenal Striker Billy Vigar

The Football Association (FA) has announced an immediate review of the safety of perimeter walls and boundaries at non-league football grounds following the tragic death of 21-year-old Billy Vigar, who sustained a fatal brain injury after colliding with a concrete wall during a match for Chichester City. The government, represented by Children, Families and Wellbeing Minister Josh MacAlister, supports this review and is prepared to assist the FA in improving pitch safety. The incident, which led to the abandonment of the match against Wingate and Finchley, has sparked a petition called "Vigar's Law" demanding the removal of hard, immovable structures like brick walls from playing areas to prevent further injuries. The FA emphasized that while health and safety at this level is primarily the responsibility of clubs and local authorities, they will work with leagues and stakeholders to help clubs identify and implement safety measures. Tributes to Vigar will be observed across National League System and Emirates FA Cup games. The review follows similar safety concerns raised by the Professional Footballers’ Association after previous serious injuries caused by collisions with advertising boards and barriers.