Former Arsenal academy forward Billy Vigar has tragically died at the age of 21, after sustaining a serious brain injury while playing for Chichester City. The non-league side confirmed his passing on Thursday, describing him as a much-loved figure. The former Hale End star's tragic death has drawn numerous tributes from former clubs, among others.
Chichester confirm Vigar's tragic death
Vigar suffered a head injury in Chichester's match against Wingate & Finchley on Saturday, which was suspended after the incident. He was placed in an induced coma and underwent surgery to aid his recovery, but his injuries proved too severe. Chichester confirmed his death on Thursday and paid tribute to their player in a heartfelt statement.
"It is with great sadness that Chichester City Football Club has to confirm the passing of Billy Vigar. Below is a statement from his family. We request that his family's privacy is respected at this most difficult time," the club said.
"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 (25th) morning.
"The responses to the original update show how much Billy was thought of and loved within the sport. His family are devastated that this has happened whilst he was playing the sport that he loved."
AdvertisementGetty ImagesTributes pour in for Vigar
Arsenal posted an emotional message on social media, which read: "Everyone at Arsenal is devastated by the shocking news that former academy graduate Billy Vigar has passed away. All our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this time. Rest in peace, Billy."
Another of Billy's former clubs, Derby County, wrote: "All at Derby County are deeply saddened by the passing of Billy Vigar. Billy spent the second half of the 2022/23 season with the Academy on loan from Arsenal, making several appearances for the Under-21s. The thoughts of everyone at the club are with his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time."
The Professional Footballers' Association said: "Everyone at the PFA is shocked to learn of the tragic passing of Billy Vigar. This is devastating news, and our immediate thoughts are with Billy’s family, friends and teammates. The PFA will be offering all the support and services we have available to them at this time."
The FA added on : "We are devastated to hear that Billy Vigar has passed away. We send our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, loved ones, and everyone at Chichester City FC at this incredibly difficult time."
Eastbourne Borough said in a statement: "#EBFC are devastated to learn of the passing of former player Billy Vigar. The 21-year-old played for The Sports on loan from Arsenal during the 2023/24 season, where he made 32 appearances for the club. Both footballing and non-footballing club staff are shocked and deeply saddened of the news, and our thoughts are with Billy’s family at this terrible time."
And, from Hastings United: "All of us at Hastings United are devastated to learn of the passing of Billy Vigar. We will always remember Billy's time at Hastings United with fondness. Our thoughts are with Billy's family and friends at this time. Rest In Peace, Billy"
Getty Images SportVigar's footballing journey
The forward joined Arsenal at 14 and rose through their academy ranks, featuring for the Under-21 side on four occasions. He gained further experience with loan spells at Derby County's youth team and Eastbourne Borough. After leaving Arsenal in 2023, he played for Hastings United before joining Chichester earlier this season.
Chichester's upcoming clashes postponed
Chichester’s scheduled match against Lewes FC was already postponed as the club mourns his loss. Messages of condolence are expected to pour in from across the football community in the coming days. Vigar’s death is a heartbreaking reminder of the risks in football and the need for increased safety standards in the sport.
