Football Samurai Academy Loses Legal Fight
Failure to secure judicial review could end bid to stay in North Acton
Children and coaches at the club when it was thriving. Picture: Samurai Academy
November 27, 2025
Football Samurai Academy, a grassroots football club based at North Acton Playing Fields, has failed in its bid to overturn Ealing Council’s decision to revoke its lease. The High Court recently refused permission for a judicial review, meaning the council’s eviction notice remains in force and the academy must vacate the site.
The academy, founded by Hideyuki “Hide” Miyahara, has operated for more than a decade, coaching over 360 children from 25 nationalities and working closely with local schools. It has been praised for its inclusive ethos and affordable training sessions.
In early 2025, Ealing Council issued an eviction notice, citing the expiry of the lease and concerns about the condition of the facilities. The council also raised a disputed £490,000 repair bill, which the academy said was impossible to meet.
Football Samurai had sought a judicial review of the council’s decision, arguing it was procedurally unfair and failed to consider the academy’s community role. However, the High Court ruled that the council had acted within its rights and refused permission for the case to proceed.
This ruling effectively ended the academy’s legal route to remain at North Acton Playing Fields.
The eviction has sparked widespread local opposition with 1,500 residents signing petitions calling for the academy to be saved.
Campaigners argue that the council’s redevelopment plans risk displacing vital grassroots sports provision at a time when demand for youth facilities is growing.
Football Samurai has been forced to cease operations at North Acton and is now seeking alternative venues, though relocation costs and uncertainty threaten its future. It did not respond to our request for comment.
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