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Today marks 40 years since one of the darkest days in English football. On May 11, 1985, 56 supporters lost their lives in the Bradford City fire disaster at Valley Parade. Among the smoke and flames, families were shattered, lives changed forever, and football stood still in grief. As a Leeds United supporter, I want to extend my deepest condolences and respect to the Bradford City community. Though our clubs may be rivals on the pitch, in tragedy we stand together.
It’s also the anniversary of another tragic loss—the death of 15-year-old Ian Hambridge at St Andrew’s, during violent scenes at the Birmingham vs. Leeds match that same day. A young life, full of promise, taken far too soon in circumstances that should never be repeated.
Football has come a long way in safety and unity, but the memory of May 11 must never fade. We remember not only the victims but the heroes—fans, police, medics—who tried to help. Today, football is united not by colours, but by compassion, remembrance, and a shared commitment to never let such horrors happen again.
Rest in peace to all who were lost. You will never be forgotten.
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