Arsenal Honors Ken Friar After Seven Decades of Service

Arsenal announced the death of life president Ken Friar at age 92 on October 13, 2026, after his seven decade association with the London club shaped its administration, traditions, and move from Highbury to the Emirates Stadium.

According to Arseblog and a profile from now.arsenal, Friar joined Arsenal as a child in 1946 and later became club secretary and managing director before retiring from the board in September 2020.

Friar’s career began after manager George Allison noticed him outside Highbury, leading to a messenger role before he joined the permanent staff in 1950. He later handled contracts, operations, and supporter relations.

During an interview published in Arseblog Anthology So Paddy Got Up, Friar discussed his workload after helping deliver the Emirates Stadium project.

"Well I’ve cut back now; it’s just sixty hours a week!" said Ken Friar, Arsenal life president.

After stepping away from the managing director role in 2000, Friar focused on the relocation from Highbury alongside Danny Fiszman. The Emirates Stadium opened in 2006 after the development process.

Friar emphasized that Arsenal’s identity depended on the people connected to the club and his role in protecting its traditions.

"It’s the people that make the Club." said Ken Friar, Arsenal life president.

He expanded on the role of supporters, managers, and staff in maintaining Arsenal’s character during periods of change.

"The fans make it, the manager makes it and all the people that work for it make it." said Ken Friar, Arsenal life president.

Friar described his contribution as preserving continuity while the club moved into a new era. His work included maintaining links with the community and protecting historic practices.

"I suppose if I’m to take credit for anything it’s for playing a part in continuing those traditions." said Ken Friar, Arsenal life president.

The former executive received an OBE for services to football in 2000 and the Freedom of Islington in 2004. A bridge near the Emirates Stadium was later named the Ken Friar Bridge.

In discussing his approach to Arsenal’s heritage, Friar referred to those responsible for the club’s history as custodians.

"custodians of the heritage." said Ken Friar, Arsenal life president.

Friar remained a symbolic figure for Arsenal after becoming life president in 2020. His long association with the club began in 1946 and ended after more than seven decades of service.

His commitment to Arsenal was also reflected in his explanation of why he continued working for the club throughout his life.

"But look, I work because I love the place and the people." said Ken Friar, Arsenal life president.