UK Athletics Ltd and the former head of sport for the 2017 World Para Athletics Championships have been charged with manslaughter in connection with the tragic death of Paralympian Abdullah Hayayei. The Crown Prosecution Service announced the charges following an investigation into the incident that occurred in 2017.

Abdullah Hayayei, a 36-year-old athlete from the United Arab Emirates, was preparing to compete in shot put, discus, and javelin events when a metal throwing cage fell on him while he was training at the Newham Leisure Centre in London. The incident resulted in Hayayei being struck by a metal pole, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. The World Para Athletics Championships were scheduled to begin later that week, with teams and coaches from various countries present at the facility during the training session.

Keith Davies, 77, the former head of sport for the championship, faces charges of gross negligence manslaughter as well as a health and safety offence. UK Athletics has been charged with corporate manslaughter alongside a violation of the Health and Safety at Work Act.

The charges reflect serious concerns regarding safety measures in place during training sessions and the responsibilities of organizations to ensure the well-being of athletes. The case highlights the need for stringent health and safety protocols in sports events to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Sky News

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