Remembering the Fallen: Manchester United Commemorates 67 Years Since the Munich Air Disaster
On Thursday, 6 February 2025, Manchester United Football Club, along with its global family of supporters, paused to remember one of the darkest days in the club’s storied history. Sixty-seven years have passed since the Munich Air Disaster claimed 23 lives, including eight of the famed “Busby Babes” and three club officials, yet the pain and poignancy of that tragic event continue to resonate deeply within the fabric of the club.
The day of remembrance began in Munich, where the Manchester Munich Memorial Foundation led a solemn service at Manchesterplatz, near the site of the crash. United’s director of fan engagement, Rick McGagh, and club ambassador Andrew Cole joined local residents and supporters in paying their respects. The presence of Cole, a key figure in United’s 1999 Treble-winning side, served as a poignant reminder of the club’s resilience and ability to overcome adversity.
Back in Manchester, the heart of the commemoration took place beneath the Munich clock at Old Trafford. The service, which began at 14:45 GMT, saw a gathering of fans, players, staff, and club representatives, all united in remembrance. Among those present were current manager Ruben Amorim, women’s team manager Marc Skinner, and players Bruno Fernandes and Maya Le Tissier, who laid wreaths in honour of the fallen.
The ceremony featured moving contributions from various speakers. Roy Cavanagh MBE shared personal memories of the Busby Babes, offering a vivid connection to that golden era of United’s history. Former goalkeeper Alex Stepney, who played a crucial role in United’s European Cup triumph just ten years after the disaster, reflected on the club’s journey from tragedy to triumph. His presence served as a living link between the pre- and post-Munich eras of the club.
In a touching display of United’s commitment to nurturing young talent – a tradition that the Busby Babes epitomised – representatives from the Under-13 boys’ and girls’ teams participated in the service. The involvement of these young players highlighted the enduring legacy of those lost and the club’s determination to honour their memory by continuing to develop homegrown talent.
The Manchester United Foundation closed the ceremony with a poignant poem, emphasising the club’s ongoing commitment to using football as a force for good in the community – a fitting tribute to the spirit of the Busby Babes.
The attendance of CEO Omar Berrada and other senior leaders underscored the significance of the event within the club’s hierarchy. The presence of Sir Alex Ferguson, alongside club ambassadors Bryan Robson and Denis Irwin, provided a tangible link to United’s more recent glories, all built on the foundations laid by Sir Matt Busby and his young team.
Following the official service, supporters were invited to the International Suite in the Stretford End. Here, in an atmosphere of shared remembrance, fans had the opportunity to engage with Alex Stepney, sharing memories and reflections. The display of Munich-related collections and items from the club museum offered a tangible connection to the events of 1958, allowing younger supporters to gain a deeper understanding of this crucial chapter in United’s history.
The club’s commitment to honouring the memory of Munich extends beyond this annual commemoration. Throughout late January and early February, tributes were held across all home fixtures, including Academy matches, the women’s team game against Brighton at Leigh Sports Village, and the men’s Premier League fixture against Crystal Palace at Old Trafford. These events serve as a reminder that the spirit of the Busby Babes continues to inspire every level of the club.
As Manchester United moves forward, constantly evolving in the modern football landscape, the events of 6 February 1958 remain an indelible part of its identity. The annual commemoration serves not only as a moment of sorrow but also as a celebration of the club’s resilience, its commitment to youth, and its ability to unite people from all walks of life.
The legacy of the Busby Babes – their youth, their talent, and their tragic loss – continues to shape Manchester United. As we remember them, we are reminded of the club’s enduring motto: “We’ll Never Die”. In honouring their memory, Manchester United reaffirms its commitment to the values they embodied – courage, unity, and the beautiful game itself.
Picture gallery from today:
