Manchester United and supporters will gather today to mark the 68th anniversary of the Munich air disaster, paying tribute to the 23 victims through memorial services at Old Trafford and Munich.
On February 6, 2026, the footballing world pauses to remember the darkest day in Manchester United’s history.
Sixty-eight years ago, a chartered plane carrying the “Busby Babes” crashed during a third take-off attempt in snowy conditions at Munich-Riem Airport.
The tragedy claimed 23 lives, including eight players and three club officials, effectively devastating one of the most promising young squads in European football history.
A remembrance service will be held today at 2:45 pm under the Munich clock at Old Trafford’s East Stand.
Led by Reverend John Boyers, the ceremony will include a roll of honor, poems, and readings by United legend Sammy McIlroy and journalist Andy Mitten.
Simultaneously, the Manchester Munich Memorial Foundation will lead a fan-led tribute at the Manchesterplatz memorial in Germany, ensuring the fallen are honored at the crash site.
First-team manager Michael Carrick emphasized the disaster’s enduring impact, stating that players have a “responsibility” to understand this defining chapter.
Tributes will continue into Saturday’s Premier League fixture against Tottenham Hotspur, with flags flying at half-mast and a wreath-laying ceremony scheduled for 10:30 am.
For decades, the resilience shown by Sir Matt Busby and the survivors has remained a fundamental pillar of the club’s identity and global heritage.