FA plans National League perimeter wall safety review after player death

Billy Vigar, a 21-year-old former Arsenal youth player, died after sustaining a significant brain injury from colliding with a concrete wall during a National League system match for Chichester City. In response, the Football Association (FA) announced an immediate safety review focused on perimeter walls and boundaries around pitches in the National League system to help mitigate potential risks. The Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) also called for a full investigation, emphasizing the need to ensure players are not exposed to unnecessary risks and highlighting previous similar incidents. The FA's review will involve collaboration with leagues, clubs, and stakeholders to identify and implement additional safety measures at stadiums. The tragedy has prompted petitions calling for bans on brick walls around pitches and has drawn support from football authorities and politicians to improve player safety. Tributes to Vigar are planned for upcoming FA Cup and National League matches.