UK Athletics Pleads Guilty to Corporate Manslaughter After Fatal Incident
UK Athletics has entered a guilty plea to corporate manslaughter charges following the tragic death of Emirati para-athlete Abdullah Hayayei in East London. The 36-year-old athlete, who was preparing for the 2017 World Para Athletics Championships, lost his life on July 11, 2017, at Newham Leisure Centre in Prince Regent Lane.
Details of the Fatal Collapse
Mr. Hayayei suffered serious injuries when the throwing cage he was training in collapsed unexpectedly. Emergency services, including police and paramedics, were called to the scene, but he died shortly after the incident. The case reached a significant milestone nine years later when UK Athletics admitted corporate manslaughter during a hearing at the Old Bailey on Friday, February 20, 2026.
A joint investigation by the police and Newham Council revealed that the throwing cage had not been properly erected, making it unstable and leading to the fatal accident. UK Athletics, which managed international athletics and para-athletics events in London during 2017, faced scrutiny over safety protocols.
Legal Proceedings and Guilty Pleas
In addition to the organization's plea, Keith Davies, 78, of Bushwood, Leytonstone, the former head of sport at UK Athletics, pleaded guilty to an offence under Section 7 of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. Davies was interviewed under caution in November 2017 in connection with the investigation.
Both UK Athletics and Davies were charged in January 2025 and initially pleaded not guilty at a hearing in March 2025. However, they later changed their pleas to guilty. Sentencing for both parties is scheduled to take place at the Old Bailey on a date yet to be fixed.
Investigation and Family Impact
Detective Sergeant Brett Hagen, who led the Metropolitan Police's investigation, expressed condolences to Mr. Hayayei's family, acknowledging their patience and dignity throughout the lengthy and complex process. He stated, "Our thoughts are with Mr. Hayayei's family during what will be a significant moment for them. We thank them for their ongoing patience, understanding and dignity throughout this lengthy and complex investigation."
Hagen added, "The resulting charges and early guilty plea reflect our perseverance and dedication, and the significant work undertaken to build a comprehensive and compelling case against the defendants. Cases of this nature are rare and particularly difficult to prosecute due to various complexities surrounding the legislation, so we welcome this outcome."
This case highlights critical issues in sports safety and corporate accountability, serving as a somber reminder of the importance of proper equipment maintenance and adherence to health and safety regulations in athletic training environments.
