Former Arsenal Academy Striker Billy Vigar Dies After Brain Injury in Match

Chichester City FC has announced the death of 21-year-old Billy Vigar, a former Arsenal academy striker, who passed away after sustaining a “significant brain injury” during a game.

The Worthing-born forward was injured last Saturday in an Isthmian League Premier Division match against Wingate and Finchley. While it is believed he collided with a concrete wall, the club has not confirmed the cause of the injury.

In a statement released Thursday, Vigar’s family said:
“After sustaining a significant brain injury last Saturday, Billy Vigar was put into an induced coma. On Tuesday, he needed an operation to aid any chances of recovery. Although this 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 loved and thought of within the sport.”

Vigar began his career at Arsenal, joining the academy at age 14 after being scouted from Hove Rivervale FC. He left the Gunners in 2024 and went on to play for Derby County, Hastings United, and Eastbourne Borough before signing with Chichester City.

Arsenal paid tribute in an emotional statement:
“Billy joined our academy on schoolboy terms aged 14, after being scouted at his hometown club Hove Rivervale FC and excelled as a striker at Hale End… As well as his significant talent, Billy will always be remembered for his love of the game, pride at representing our football club… and a character beloved by team-mates and coaches alike. Our deepest condolences go out to the Vigar family and his many friends at this extremely difficult time.”

Derby County, Hastings United, Eastbourne Borough, and The FA also expressed their condolences.

Chichester City confirmed that Saturday’s fixture against Lewes has been postponed and will be rescheduled.

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