CHICHESTER, England – Billy Vigar, 21, a former Arsenal academy player and forward for Chichester City, has died following a severe brain injury sustained during a match.
Vigar collided with a hard pitchside surface just 15 minutes into Chichester City’s Isthmian Premier Division game against Wingate and Finchley on Saturday. He was treated by ambulance crews and airlifted to a hospital, where he was placed in an induced coma and underwent surgery. Despite efforts to save him, he passed away on Thursday, October 25.
Chichester City released a statement from Vigar’s family: “After sustaining a significant brain injury last Saturday, Billy Vigar was put in 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. His family are devastated that this has happened whilst he was playing the sport that he loved.”
Arsenal FC also issued a statement honoring Vigar, noting his time in the club’s academy: “Everyone at Arsenal Football Club is deeply sorry to hear of the tragic passing of Chichester City forward and former Arsenal academy player, Billy Vigar. 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 teammates and coaches alike. Our deepest condolences go out to the Vigar family and his many friends at this extremely difficult time.”
Vigar, from Worthing, West Sussex, joined Arsenal’s academy at age 14 after being scouted from Hove Rivervale FC. He progressed through the youth ranks, signing a professional contract in July 2022. He played for Arsenal’s U21 team and had loan spells with Derby County U21 and Eastbourne Borough before moving to Hastings United in 2024 and later joining Chichester City.
Fans paid tribute to Vigar by leaving flowers and messages at Chichester FC’s ground, mourning the loss of a talented player whose career and life were tragically cut short.
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