Government backs FA review following death of footballer Billy Vigar
The 21 year old died in hospital after suffering a serious brain injury in a match last weekend
A minister has told us the government is backing the Football Association's review into pitch safety, following the death of footballer Billy Vigar.
Calls are being made to remove walls in response to the brain injury the 21 year old from Worthing suffered whilst playing for Chichester City in a match last Saturday (20th September 2025).
Children, Families and Wellbeing Minister, Josh MacAlister, says what's happened is awful and lessons must be learnt:
"It's a really tragic and sad that such a young man has lost his life.
"My heart goes out to Billy's family, friends, players and everyone in the footballing world who knew Billy - it's really sad.
"The government supports the FA in looking into whether there needs to be changes made to make pitches safer.
"We'll keep a track of that and support the FA if they need help with that process."
Yesterday a spokesperson for the Football Association said:
"We are deeply saddened by the passing of Billy Vigar. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his family, friends, loved ones, and everyone at Chichester City FC, and tributes will be paid to Billy at National League System and Emirates FA Cup games this weekend.
"Whilst the health and safety of participants and spectators at the National League System level is the responsibility of the clubs and their local authorities, we will now conduct an immediate review, working with leagues, clubs and relevant stakeholders across the game, that will focus on the safety of perimeter walls and boundaries around 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."
A minute's silence and other tributes will be paid to Billy Vigar at games across the country.
Flowers and messages are continuing to be left at Chichester City football club's ground.
Billy's former clubs Arsenal, Derby County, Hastings United and Eastbourne Borough are among those who've paid tributes and sent their condolences to his family and friends.