Manchester United plan tribute to Busby Babes
Manchester United have announced a list of plans to mark the 50th year anniversary of the Munich air disaster. It is thought the players will wear a sponsor-less, retro 1950 style kit with the numbers 1-11 on their backs in the derby against Man City on 10th February. (4 days after the anniversary)
Chief Executive David Gill described how “The sincere thanks of the Club go to AIG and Nike for their wholehearted backing for the kit change, and to the Premier League for allowing us to mark the event in a unique way.”
Other proposals include a special memorial programme, a day of remembrance shows on MUTV (which will be free to air for all Virgin/Sky customers for the day), a free permanent exhibition at Old Trafford and the re-naming of the South Stand tunnel as ‘The Munich Tunnel’. All fans who attend the match will also receive a memento of the occasion.
Not only will the shirts the players where be free of sponsorship, MUTV will also be without adverts while the shows air. There will also be a tribute at the England vs Switzerland game at Wembley on the actual night of the anniversary.
The kits will be in the 1950’s style but will not be available to purchase. Manchester United are often criticized for their prioritising of profit over the feelings of fans, but in this case it seems that they have made put in plan some fantastic ideas.
The Manchester derby is the closest game to the 50th anniversary of the air disaster on February 6 1958, when 23 passengers passed away when the plane returning from a Manchester United European game with Red Star Belgrade crashed on take-off after a stop in Munich.
Many of the ideas were from fans of the club, and their board has listened. The club has really gone out their way with a string of fantastic tributes which are the perfect way for supporters and players to pay tribute to the memory of those who died in the air disaster. February 10th will no doubt be an unforgettable and emotional event for everyone involved with Manchester United.
Peter Evans
Hold a minute of silence tomorrow!
Some of the finest players in europe died that day 50 years ago!
City fans, show your respect and dignity! We shall not forget!
Sir Matt busby and his “Babes” will live on forever!
Respect!
Sir Matt and his babes we will never forget you all