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England: ban on concrete walls near pitches continued

By OnzeActu · · 4 min read

England: ban on concrete walls near pitches continued

Following the death of Billy Vigar, the English Football Association has decided to ban the presence of concrete walls or similar structures near football pitches from the 2026/27 season, in order to increase player safety.

Why it matters

The Football Association's decision to ban concrete walls near football pitches is crucial to improving player safety. This rule adjustment follows the tragic passing of Billy Vigar, highlighting the importance of a safe playing environment in English football. The measure aims to prevent further similar accidents, thereby increasing safety in Premier League football and beyond.

Key points

  • England: ban on concrete walls near pitches continued.
  • Following the death of Billy Vigar, the English Football Association has decided to ban the presence of concrete walls or similar structures near football pitches from the 2026/27 season, in order to increase player safety.
  • Inghilterra, vietati i muri de cemento vicino ai campi dopo popo la tragedia dell'ex Arsenal Vigar.
The Football Association (FA) has announced a significant change to safety regulations regarding football ground infrastructure in England. The decision follows the tragic loss of former Arsenal youth player Billy Vigar in a fatal accident during an English Seventh Division match. Vigar, aged only 21, violently collided with a concrete wall placed at the edge of the pitch,

e which caused him a serious fatal brain injury.

To prevent such tragedies in the future, the FA has decided to prohibit, from the 2026/27 season, the presence of solid brick walls, concrete blocks or any other cement structure located in the immediate vicinity of the playing fields. This measure concerns all national men's championships as well as the women's championship.

According to a report drawn up by independent health and safety specialists, all rigid obstacles installed next to the grounds must either be removed quickly or covered with adequate protection if they cannot be moved for architectural reasons. The FA said in its press release: “Any existing barriers made of solid bricks or concrete blocks must be removed as soon as possible, or protected if their removal is not possible. »

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Funding for this security work will be provided jointly by the FA and the Premier League via the Premier League Stadium Fund. This initiative aims to help the clubs concerned to adapt their infrastructures as quickly as possible. The initial phase of the program is already underway, and both bodies guarantee full support to the teams involved.

This strengthening of safety standards comes in a context where the protection of players is becoming a major priority for the English authorities, who wish to avoid any repetition of an accident as tragic as that of Billy Vigar. The new regulations are also expected to have a lasting influence on safety standards in other European football countries.

In summary, this measure is an important step to better secure playing spaces and protect the health of footballers, both professionals and amateurs, throughout England from the 2026/27 season.

Frequently asked questions

What led to the ban on concrete walls near football pitches?

The ban was decided following the tragic death of former Arsenal youth player Billy Vigar, who suffered a fatal accident when he crashed into a concrete wall during a match.

Who confirmed the ban on concrete walls?

The Football Association (FA) has announced this important change to safety regulations.

Why is this decision being made now?

The decision follows a report by health and safety specialists, aimed at preventing future similar tragedies.

What are the new rules regarding pitch infrastructure?

From the 2026/27 season, all solid brick walls, concrete blocks or other cement structures will need to be removed or protected if they cannot be moved.

What measures will be taken to finance these changes?

Funding for the security works will be provided jointly by the FA and the Premier League via the Premier League Stadium Fund.

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