Training Accident at Newham Leisure Centre
UK Athletics has admitted corporate manslaughter over the death of Paralympian Abdullah Hayayei. The athlete died in July 2017 during a training session at Newham Leisure Centre in London. A metal throwing cage collapsed and struck him. He was 36.
At first, UK Athletics denied the charge in March 2025. However, the organization changed its plea at a recent hearing at the Old Bailey. As a result, the court will now move straight to sentencing.
Keith Davies, who oversaw sport at the 2017 World Para Athletics Championships, also admitted a health and safety offence. Earlier, he had denied gross negligence manslaughter. Now, he remains on bail. In addition, he must cooperate with the Probation Service for a pre sentence report.
Prosecutor Karen Robinson asked the judge to fix a two day sentencing hearing in early June. She also confirmed that the prosecution will not pursue a full trial. Therefore, the court will deal with all remaining matters during sentencing.
A Prominent Paralympic Career
At the time of the incident, Hayayei prepared for the 2017 World Para Athletics Championships in London. He represented the United Arab Emirates in the F34 classification.
He planned to compete in shot put, discus, and javelin. Moreover, London 2017 would have marked his second appearance at a world championship.
Previously, he competed at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games. There, he finished sixth in javelin and seventh in shot put. Earlier still, he took part in the 2015 World Championships in Doha. He secured fifth place in discus and eighth in shot put.
Beyond sport, Hayayei was a father of five. His death shocked the athletics community. For that reason, organizers held a moment of silence during the opening ceremony at London Stadium.
Sentencing Stage Ahead
The court will now decide the penalties for UK Athletics and Keith Davies. Meanwhile, the case has renewed debate around safety standards in elite sport. Ultimately, the sentencing hearing in June will close a legal process that has lasted several years.
