Billy Vigar Tragically Passes Away at 21 Following Brain Injury

Former Arsenal academy striker Billy Vigar has died at the age of 21 following a significant brain injury sustained during a match for Chichester City FC against Wingate & Finchley on Saturday. The tragic incident, which reportedly involved a collision with a concrete wall as Vigar attempted to keep the ball in play, led to him being placed in an induced coma. Despite undergoing emergency surgery, the injury proved fatal, and Vigar passed away on Thursday morning, September 25th, 2025. Vigar’s death has sent shockwaves throughout the English football community. Chichester City FC confirmed the news in a statement from the Vigar family, expressing their devastation and gratitude for the outpouring of support: “Although the operation helped, the injury proved too much for him and he passed away on Thursday morning. The responses to the original update show how much Billy was thought of and loved within the sport.” Billy Vigar was a product of the Arsenal academy, having joined at age 14 after being scouted from Hove Rivervale FC. He quickly established himself as a promising striker, scoring 17 goals in his debut season at Hale End. Despite an early setback due to a hamstring injury, he signed professional terms with Arsenal at the end of the 2021/22 season and featured in the Premier League 2 and EFL Trophy. Vigar also enjoyed loan spells at Derby County and Eastbourne Borough before returning to the south coast with Hastings United and, most recently, Chichester City. The football world has responded with widespread tributes. Arsenal expressed their heartbreak, writing, “Everyone at Arsenal is devastated by the shocking news that former academy graduate Billy Vigar has passed away. All our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this time. Rest in peace, Billy.” Chichester City, in their tribute, said, “Rest in peace Billy. Forever in the hearts of all at Chichester City Football Club.” The incident has reignited debate about player safety at lower league grounds. The BBC and The Independent reported that Vigar’s fatal injury may have been caused by colliding with a concrete wall bordering the pitch. A petition calling for a ban on brick walls around football pitches has quickly gained over 4,000 signatures, with campaigners arguing such barriers pose unnecessary dangers to players. Luke Griggs, chief executive of brain injury charity Headway UK, emphasized the need for renewed discussions on how to mitigate these risks, especially after a similar incident involving Alex Fletcher of Bath City. The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) has called for a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding Vigar’s death and broader player safety standards. As football mourns the loss of a talented young striker, Vigar is remembered not just for his achievements on the pitch but for his character and dedication. He once described the day he was scouted by Arsenal as “the most important of his life” and was regarded as a beloved teammate wherever he played. The impact of his passing has been felt deeply from grassroots clubs to the top of the English game, prompting reflection on both his legacy and the urgent need for improved safety measures at all levels. Tributes made to ex-Arsenal and Chichester striker Billy Vigar | Soccer Player Dies at 21 After Suffering ‘Significant Brain Injury’