- Billy Vigar, 21, died after a brain injury sustained during a league match.
- He was injured early in Chichester City’s clash against Wingate & Finchley.
- Despite surgery, doctors could not save him.
- Clubs including Arsenal and Derby paid tribute.
- Chichester postponed their next fixture as tributes continued to pour in.
Chichester City striker Billy Vigar has passed away at the age of 21 following a serious brain injury he suffered in a league match last weekend.
The forward was injured just minutes into the Isthmian League game against Wingate & Finchley. The match was abandoned after 13 minutes as medical staff rushed to attend to him.
Vigar was placed in an induced coma and underwent surgery on Tuesday in an attempt to aid his recovery. Sadly, doctors confirmed that the injury was too severe, and he lost his life on Thursday morning.
Chichester City announced the news, noting how deeply loved and respected Vigar was in the football community.
Vigar began his football journey at Hove Rivervale before joining Arsenal’s academy in 2017 at the age of 14. He signed a professional deal in 2022 and played for the under-21s, even appearing in the EFL Trophy.
He later went on loan spells with Derby County and Eastbourne Borough before signing for Hastings United in 2024. He joined Chichester City ahead of the current season.
Arsenal paid glowing tribute to their former academy player, describing him as “quick, powerful, and fiercely determined.” They remembered his passion and pride in representing the club.
Derby County also expressed sorrow, recalling his time on loan with their academy. Chichester confirmed that their upcoming match against Lewes has been postponed as tributes continue to flow in from across the football world.
Billy Vigar’s untimely death has left a mark on the football community. He will be remembered not only for his talent on the pitch but also for his love of the game.
