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Sir Jim Ratcliffe joined others at the Munich Air Disaster memorial and is nearing a minority ownership position at Manchester United.
On February 6th, 1958, a significant event occurred in the history of the club when the aircraft carrying Sir Matt Busby’s team crashed on its return from a European Cup match against Red Star Belgrade.
Every year, those associated with United remember a tragic event that resulted in the loss of 23 lives, including eight players.
On Tuesday afternoon, Ratcliffe was present at Old Trafford to honor the 66th anniversary.
The billionaire is currently waiting for approval of his 25% purchase of the club, but he and his Ineos team have been actively involved since the deal was announced on Christmas Eve.
Ratcliffe has visited United on several occasions, including January’s draw with Tottenham, and was joined at the ceremony by Ineos director of sport Sir Dave Brailsford.
The new minority shareholder attended the event with Sir Alex Ferguson.
Paddy Crerand and Brian Kidd, legends of United, were present at the event along with first-team manager Erik ten Hag and women’s team boss Marc Skinner.
Both Bruno Fernandes and Katie Zelem, the captains of their teams, were present at the fan-organized event despite the heavy rain.
Mike Phelan, a former player and assistant, honored the club at a special memorial event at Manchesterplatz in Munich.
At Old Trafford’s exterior, ex-chaplain of the club Rev John Boyers served as the host of the event.
At 3:04pm, a minute of silence was observed along with readings and songs from supporters to mark the moment when the plane crashed in 1958.
Once again, I urge you to stay optimistic about the future of your club.
A moment was taken to remember key individuals associated with United who have passed away since the previous Munich memorial.
After the passing of Sir Bobby Charlton in October, a survivor of the crash, fans showed their support by applauding his wife Lady Cathy Ferguson, who was accompanied by former boss Sir Alex Ferguson. The tribute visibly moved the United legend.
At the conclusion of the event, Reverend Boyers expressed: “This day brings with it a deep sorrow. We have collectively honored a devastating period in the legacy of Manchester United.”
The following years bring a message of optimism and triumph, replacing the previous feelings of hopelessness and grief.
“In the following chapter of the United story, after the tragedy of Munich, we can surely find hope.”
“Once again, I urge you to stay positive about the future of your club.”
The 66th anniversary arrived one day after Ratcliffe’s agreement to acquire a share in United moved forward.
The billionaire is purchasing a quarter of the Class B shares owned by the Glazer family, which hold 10 times the voting power of Class A shares, as a part of his investment.
At a special meeting on Monday, the current shareholders voted to pass a special resolution that states the Class B shares will not be converted to Class A shares when they are transferred to Ratcliffe.
In addition, Ratcliffe plans to buy 25% of Class A shares and invest $300 million US dollars (£239m) into the club’s infrastructure. The agreement is still pending approval from the Premier League.
If the Glazers choose to sell more shares, the Ineos chairman has the initial opportunity to purchase additional Class B shares.
Source: independent.co.uk
