Billy Vigar, a former youth player for Arsenal, has tragically passed away at the age of 21. His death occurred after he sustained a severe head injury that impacted his brain during a football match while representing Chichester City in an English national league. The devastating news was confirmed by Chichester City Football Club.
The tragic incident took place on September 21st during a match in England’s seventh-tier national football league. Vigar was playing for Chichester City against Wingate & Finchley when he suffered the fatal injury. During play, Vigar sprinted at high speed in an attempt to keep the ball from going out of bounds. His momentum carried him beyond the field of play, resulting in a full-force collision with a concrete wall adjacent to the pitch. He sustained a severe head injury and immediately collapsed unconscious near the sidelines. The 21-year-old was swiftly transported to a hospital in an unconscious state.
The former Arsenal youth star underwent critical surgery for his severe head injury on September 23rd. While there were initial signs of recovery following the procedure, Vigar’s condition tragically deteriorated, and he passed away on the morning of September 25th.
Chichester City released a heartfelt statement following Vigar’s passing: “This is the saddest news imaginable. Chichester City Football Club can confirm that Billy Vigar has passed away. You will be remembered by everyone at Chichester City FC, always.” In a mark of respect and mourning, the club subsequently postponed its scheduled match against Lewes, which was set to take place on September 27th.
Billy Vigar joined Arsenal’s youth academy in 2017, developing his skills within their esteemed setup. He transitioned into professional football in 2022. The 21-year-old was primarily known as a powerful and technically adept forward.
Upon learning of the tragic news, Arsenal Football Club issued a statement expressing their profound condolences to the Vigar family. Their message read: “Everyone at Arsenal Football Club is deeply shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of our former academy player, Billy Vigar. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to his family and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time. Rest in peace, Vigar.”
Clubs where the English striker had previously played, including Derby County, Eastbourne Borough, and Hastings United, following his departure from Arsenal, also posted messages of condolence for their former teammate. The Football Association (FA) of England also released a statement, extending its deepest sympathies to Billy Vigar’s family, friends, and Chichester City.
As a further tribute, England’s seventh-tier national football league, where Chichester City competes, announced that a minute of silence would be observed by all players and match officials before every upcoming fixture to honor the memory of Billy Vigar.
