FA bans hard perimeter walls at non-league and women’s league pitches

The Football Association has enacted a ban on solid perimeter walls at pitches in tiers one to six of the men’s National League System and tiers three and four of the Women’s National League, effective from the 2026/27 season. This decision follows the tragic death of Billy Vigar, a former Arsenal academy player, who died after sustaining a brain injury from a collision during a match. The FA's measure aims to improve player safety and aligns with calls for action following other incidents related to player injuries. Clubs must either remove these structures or install padding, and both the FA and the Premier League are set to assist with costs associated with compliance.

• 10:05 AMYahoo Sports — FA ban pitchside walls after ex-Arsenal youngster’s death