UK Athletics Admits Corporate Manslaughter in 2017 Death of Paralympian Abdullah Hayayei in London

After 9 years, UK Athletics has admitted to corporate manslaughter in the death of Paralympian Abdullah Hayayei. This is a major change from their earlier denial.
By Newsroom | Sports, Law |

Nine years after the fatal incident, UK Athletics has formally admitted to corporate manslaughter in the death of Paralympian Abdullah Hayayei. The national governing body for athletics in Great Britain changed its plea at the Old Bailey, where it had previously denied the charge. Hayayei, who represented the United Arab Emirates, was struck and killed by a metal pole from a throwing cage during a training session at Newham Leisure Centre in east London on July 11, 2017. The organization's admission comes after a lengthy investigation and legal process.

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Background of the Incident

Abdullah Hayayei, a 36-year-old athlete, was training for the World Para Athletics Championships in London. He specialized in F34 class discus, javelin, and shot put events. The incident occurred when a part of the throwing cage, to which a metal pole was attached, fell on him. Emergency services were called to the scene, but Hayayei was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.

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Scotland Yard, in conjunction with Newham Council's health and safety team, launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death.

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  • Initial Plea: UK Athletics Ltd had previously denied the charge of corporate manslaughter and a lesser alternative health and safety offense.

  • Change of Plea: On Friday, at the Old Bailey, UK Athletics Ltd admitted to the charge of corporate manslaughter.

  • Related Charge: Davies, identified as being from Leytonstone, east London, pleaded guilty to a health and safety offense.

  • Responsibility: UK Athletics owned the discus cage and was responsible for its safety during events. Expert engineers confirmed that the base of the cage was crucial for its stability against wind forces.

Evidence and Findings

The case hinges on the admission of corporate manslaughter by UK Athletics. The specific circumstances involve:

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  • The Equipment: A throwing cage used for discus training, with an attached metal pole.

  • The Incident: The cage, or a part of it, fell, striking Abdullah Hayayei.

  • The Venue: Newham Leisure Centre in east London.

  • The Date: July 11, 2017.

  • Expert Confirmation: Engineers highlighted the necessity of the cage's base for structural integrity against wind.

Discrepancies in Previous Denials

UK Athletics' recent admission contrasts with its earlier stance. The organization had initially denied the corporate manslaughter charge. It also previously denied a lesser health and safety offense. The decision to plead guilty signifies a pivotal moment in the legal proceedings.

Context of the Sport and Athlete

  • Athlete's Status: Abdullah Hayayei was a Paralympian representing the United Arab Emirates.

  • Training Context: He was preparing for the World Para Athletics Championships.

  • Discipline: Hayayei competed in discus, javelin, and shot put events within the F34 classification.

  • Tributes: A tribute was paid to Hayayei at London Stadium following his death, and a moment of silence was observed during the World Championships' opening ceremony.

Expert and Official Statements

"UK Athletics admitted corporate manslaughter charge following death of Paralympian. The national governing body for athletics in Great Britain has pleaded guilty to corporate manslaughter after the death of a Paralympian in London." - The Crown Prosecution Service.

"UK Athletics Ltd has now admitted corporate manslaughter, having previously denied the charge." - Sky News.

The admission of corporate manslaughter by UK Athletics has significant legal implications. While the exact penalties will be determined through further proceedings, corporate manslaughter charges can lead to substantial fines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did UK Athletics admit to corporate manslaughter in the death of Abdullah Hayayei?
UK Athletics admitted to corporate manslaughter on February 20, 2026, nine years after Paralympian Abdullah Hayayei died. The admission relates to the incident on July 11, 2017, when a metal pole from a throwing cage fell on Hayayei during training in London.
Q: What happened to Abdullah Hayayei in 2017?
Paralympian Abdullah Hayayei, who was training for the World Para Athletics Championships, was killed on July 11, 2017, at Newham Leisure Centre in east London. A metal pole attached to a throwing cage fell on him during a training session.
Q: What was UK Athletics' role in the death?
UK Athletics owned the discus cage used during training and was responsible for its safety. Engineers confirmed the cage's base was vital for stability. The organization has now admitted corporate manslaughter, changing its earlier plea of not guilty.
Q: What are the next steps after UK Athletics admitted guilt?
UK Athletics has admitted corporate manslaughter, and a related health and safety offense was also admitted by an individual named Davies. The court will now determine the full penalties and sentencing for these admissions.
Q: When did this admission happen?
UK Athletics formally admitted to corporate manslaughter on Friday, February 20, 2026, at the Old Bailey court in London.