Legal Proceedings Begin Against UK Athletics and Individual for Paralympian’s Death
UK Athletics and a 77-year-old man pleaded not guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of Paralympian Abdullah Hayayei, who was fatally injured by a falling metal pole during training in 2017. An eight-week trial is scheduled for October 2026, while a case management hearing will occur in December 2025.
In a recent legal proceeding, UK Athletics and a 77-year-old individual have entered not guilty pleas regarding the manslaughter of Paralympian Abdullah Hayayei. The incident occurred in 2017 when Hayayei, an athlete from the United Arab Emirates, was fatally struck on the head by a metal pole during training at Newham Leisure Centre in London.
The tragic event took place on July 11, 2017, while Hayayei was preparing to compete in discus, javelin, and shot put for the F34 class at the World Para Athletics Championships. During the practice, part of a throwing cage collapsed, resulting in his immediate injuries and subsequent death at the scene.
Keith Davies, who was the head of sport for the 2017 championships, pleaded not guilty to gross negligence manslaughter and a health and safety violation at the Old Bailey. Furthermore, UK Athletics Limited, the governing body for athletics in the UK, also pleaded not guilty to charges of corporate manslaughter and a health and safety offence, represented by Simon Antrobus KC.
The court has scheduled an eight-week trial for October 12, 2026, set at the Old Bailey, with an initial case management hearing on December 12, 2025. Following the arraignment, Davies was released on unconditional bail, allowing him to remain free until the trial proceedings begin.
In summary, both UK Athletics and a 77-year-old man have denied culpability in the tragic death of Paralympian Abdullah Hayayei, who was killed by a falling metal pole during his training in 2017. The upcoming legal proceedings will address charges of gross negligence and corporate manslaughter, with the trial set to commence in October 2026 at the Old Bailey.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
