Football NewsSky SportsUnverified source· 7 Aug 2026
FA bans brick walls after player's death
A tragic collision leads to new safety rules for hundreds of grounds.
Incident
Billy Vigar died after colliding with a concrete barrier
Date
September 2025
Rule
Solid barriers must be removed or padded
Scope
Around 160 grounds affected
What happened. The FA has published new pitch perimeter criteria banning solid brick or concrete barriers, following the death of former Arsenal youth striker Billy Vigar.
- Vigar was 21 and played for Chichester City.
- The rule applies to National League system and Women's National League.
- Funding will come from FA and Premier League.
“Following the tragic death of Billy Vigar last year, we again highlighted these concerns.”
— PFA spokesperson
Clubs must comply or cover barriers, with matches continuing during the transition.
In this story
UEFA Nations LeagueMore to read
Football Italia
How the Nations League impacts Italy’s Euro 2028 qualifying draw
The Guardian
Netherlands v Germany, Portugal v Wales and more: Uefa Nations League – live
BBC Sport
How does the Nations League work and who is in each league?
BBC Sport
National League returns - how can it live up to last season's drama?
