Ratcliffe and Ten Hag Attend Munich Air Disaster Memorial Service at Old Trafford
In a touching display of respect and remembrance, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the co-owner of Manchester United, joined a fan-led memorial service at Old Trafford on Tuesday to mark the 66th anniversary of the Munich air disaster. This tragic event took place on February 6, 1958, when a plane carrying 44 people, including United’s iconic ‘Busby Babes’ team, crashed while attempting to take off from Munich-Riem Airport in West Germany.
The memorial ceremony was attended by several key figures associated with Manchester United. Erik ten Hag, the men’s manager, showed his solidarity by being present alongside the men’s captain, Bruno Fernandes, and women’s manager, Mark Skinner. The women’s captain, Katie Zelem, was also in attendance, demonstrating the unity within the club.
The presence of former manager Sir Alex Ferguson and former players Brian Kidd and Pat Crerand added to the significance of the occasion. Additionally, interim chief executive Patrick Stewart joined them to pay their respects to those who lost their lives in the disaster.
However, the tribute extended beyond the borders of Manchester. A memorial service was held in Munich at Manchesterplatz, Trudering-Riem, where former United player and assistant manager Mike Phelan paid his respects. This gesture highlights the global impact of the Munich air disaster and the unity it forged among football communities worldwide.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s attendance at the memorial service is just one of many appearances he has made since his investment in Manchester United was confirmed on December 24. The 71-year-old billionaire has shown his commitment to the club by attending important events and engaging with the staff and fans.
Ratcliffe’s presence at the Munich air disaster service reflects his desire to honor the club’s history and its enduring legacy. Since assuming his new position at the start of January, he has wasted no time in rallying the staff and setting high standards. Ratcliffe has also engaged directly with fans, spending hours in meetings to discuss his plans for the club. His dedication to Manchester United was further evident when he attended his first game as co-owner alongside the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson.
Accompanying Ratcliffe at the memorial service was Sir Dave Brailsford, the director of sport at INEOS. Their joint presence emphasizes the significance of the event and their commitment to upholding Manchester United’s traditions.
The Munich air disaster left an indelible mark on the club’s history. The loss of 23 lives, including several talented young players, shook the football world to its core. However, the legacy of the ‘Busby Babes’ lives on, and it is crucial that their memory is preserved. As former United player Mike Phelan stated, “We don’t want the Babes to be forgotten.”
By attending the Munich air disaster memorial service, Ratcliffe, along with the other dignitaries present, honors the memory of those who tragically lost their lives and ensures that the spirit of resilience and unity that emerged from this tragedy remains an integral part of Manchester United’s identity.