Ken Friar, President for Life of Arsenal Football Club. Biography

Ken Friar is a British football executive who has spent more than 70 years working at Arsenal London club. Over the years, he held key administrative positions in the organization, and in 2020 he was awarded the title of President for life of the club. On October 13, 2026, he died at the age of 92. About the life and career of one of the most influential employees in the history of the Gunners — in the material of Izvestia.

Childhood and education

Ken Friar was born on August 13, 1934. His childhood was closely connected with the Highbury area, where Arsenal football club was based. He received his primary education at St. John's School in Highbury, and later graduated from Highbury County High School.

Early career

Ken Friar's professional career at Arsenal began in his teens, when he joined the club in administrative positions. Gradually advancing in his career, he took the position of secretary of the club, responsible for operational activities and interaction within the organization.

Main achievements and activities at Arsenal

Ken Friar has been one of the central figures in Arsenal management for decades. He served as the club's managing director and was also a member of the board. One of the main achievements of the functionary is considered to be his key participation in the process of moving the football club from the Highbury Stadium, which has served as its home arena since 1913, to the new modern Emirates Stadium. The project required complex administrative and financial decisions, which were led by Friar. In recognition of his services to the club, a lifetime statue of Ken Friar was erected at the Emirates Stadium.

Titles and awards

Ken Friar was awarded the title of Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his many years of activity and contribution to the development of British football. In September 2020, after deciding to step away from active operational management, he was appointed President for life of Arsenal Football Club.

Personal life

In 1957, Ken Friar married Gwendoline Maureen Deacon. The functionary's wife died on December 29, 2020. Two children were born in the marriage — a son and a daughter.

Current status

Ken Friar has been Arsenal's president for life since September 2020. Despite his advanced age, he remains a significant figure in the club's structure, representing it at official events and maintaining ties with the organization, where he worked for more than seven decades.

Friar's death was announced on October 13 by Arsenal's press service. He was 92 years old.