What is Munich58?

Munich58 is an independent fan-led organisation, founded in 2001, by Mike Thomas and Elaine Giles, two Manchester-based, Manchester United fans.

Elaine and Mike organise, in conjunction with Manchester United, the Supporter’s Memorial Events that take place each year under The Munich Plaque at Old Trafford. 

Through the supporter’s memorial events, the educational resources, the website and social media channels, Munich58 ensures the memory of The Busby Babes endures forever.

For more information about the supporters memorial events, click here

RIP Sir Bobby Charlton

We at Munich58 are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Sir Bobby Charlton at the age of 86.

Charlton was born in Ashington, Northumberland, in 1937 and quickly rose to prominence as a gifted midfielder with a powerful shot. But it was his time with Manchester United that would define his career. He became one of the Busby Babes, a group of talented young players brought together by manager Matt Busby in the 1950s.

In 1958, tragedy struck when the plane carrying the Manchester United team crashed on a snowy runway in Munich. Twenty-three people died, including eight United players. Charlton survived, but the trauma would stay with him forever. It was a testament to his character that he was able to overcome this tragedy and continue to play football at the highest level.

Just ten years after the Munich air crash, Charlton would have his redemption. In 1968, he scored two goals in the European Cup final, helping Manchester United defeat Benfica 4-1 and lift the trophy. It was a symbolic victory, not just for the team, but for Charlton himself. The victory was a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, as the team had been rebuilt following the Munich tragedy.

A full tribute from Munich58 can be found here