Paralympian Dies in Training Accident

UK Athletics is facing a substantial fine after admitting to corporate manslaughter in the death of Abdullah Hayayei, a Paralympian from the United Arab Emirates. Hayayei died in July 2017 while training at the Newham Leisure Centre in London, preparing for the World Para Athletics Championships.

Details of the Incident

The incident occurred when a metal pole, attached to a throwing cage, fell on Hayayei during a training session. Emergency services were called to the scene, but the 36-year-old athlete was pronounced dead 20 minutes later.

“Abdullah Hayayei was a father of five who should have been able to compete on the world stage and return home safely to his family.”

Colin Gibbs, Senior Specialist Prosecutor with the CPS Special Crime Division

Legal Proceedings and Guilty Plea

Initially, UK Athletics pleaded not guilty to the charge of corporate manslaughter in March 2025. However, on Friday morning, February 20, 2026, the organization changed its plea to guilty at an Old Bailey hearing. Keith Davies, the head of sport for the 2017 championships, also pleaded guilty to a health and safety offense, leading to the withdrawal of a gross negligence manslaughter case against him.

UKA could face a fine between £1.2 million and £5 million, depending on deductions for the early guilty plea.

Safety Concerns and Negligence

Investigations revealed significant safety lapses. The Crown Prosecution Service stated that stabilizing components of the throwing cage – 10 ladder-like metal connectors – had been missing or unused for approximately five years prior to the incident. This lack of essential parts compromised the cage’s stability, particularly in windy conditions.

“There can be no doubt that UK Athletics were grossly negligent in their safety management, which caused the death of a talented athlete. They left equipment in a seriously unsafe condition, and Mr Hayayei’s death was wholly avoidable – a fact the organization has admitted.”

Colin Gibbs, Senior Specialist Prosecutor with the CPS Special Crime Division

Hayayei’s Athletic Career

Abdullah Hayayei represented the United Arab Emirates in athletics. He competed at the 2016 Summer Paralympics in Rio de Janeiro, finishing sixth in the javelin and seventh in the shot set. He was also preparing to compete in the F34 shot put, discus, and javelin events at the 2017 World Para Athletics Championships in London. Prior to that, he achieved fifth place in the discus and eighth in the shot put at the 2015 World Championships in Doha, Qatar.

UKA’s Response

In a statement, UK Athletics expressed deep regret over Hayayei’s death, stating, “UK Athletics deeply regrets that the incident in July 2017 resulted in the tragic loss of Abdullah Hayayei’s life. Our deepest thoughts and sympathy remain with his family, friends, teammates and all those affected by the events of that day.” The organization added that it is unable to provide further comment due to ongoing court proceedings.

FAQ

What is corporate manslaughter?

Corporate manslaughter is a crime committed when an organization’s gross negligence leads to a person’s death.

What was Abdullah Hayayei preparing for when the incident occurred?

He was training for the 2017 World Para Athletics Championships in London.

What is the potential fine for UK Athletics?

UK Athletics could face a fine between £1.2 million and £5 million.