Liverpool FC remembers victims of Heysel Stadium disaster 41 years on
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The victims of the Heysel Stadium disaster will be forever remembered by Liverpool FC as the club unveiled a new statue in their honour today, 41 years after the tragedy took place.The deadly crush took place at the Heysel Stadium in Brussels, Belgium, on 29 May 1985, shortly before the European Cup final between Liverpool and Juventus kicked off.Around one hour before the match was due to begin, the flimsy wire fence separating the two groups gave way, and violence broke out. Called ‘Forever Bound’, the memorial stands in a newly designated area of Anfield, located by the Anfield Road Stand, providing a space for reflection and remembrance.The sculpture, which was first announced at a special event at Anfield in May last year, replaces the original plaque located on the wall of the Sir Kenny Dalglish Stand.Designed with care and compassion, ‘Forever Bound’, features two scarves gently knotted together, symbolising the bond between Liverpool FC and Juventus FC.Crafted from specially selected materials, including Cararra marble sourced from an Italian quarry, the sculpture includes the names of all 39 supporters who lost their lives and a moving inscription to reflect the depth of remembrance and respect held by the club.It was created in response to calls from fans to make the memorial more prominent and accessible, and it was developed in close consultation with supporters, Spirit of Shankly, and former players.Plans were also shared with Juventus FC and those involved in the original commemorations.LFC chief executive officer Billy Hogan said: “It is a privilege to unveil ‘Forever Bound’ today on behalf of everyone at Liverpool Football Club.
This memorial is a symbol of shared remembrance, of unity and the bond formed between Liverpool and Juventus.“We are honoured to welcome our friends from Juventus to Anfield today and we stand together in solidarity and memory of the 39 supporters who tragically lost their lives at Heysel. This is a moment for all of us to pause and reflect and to commit once again to ensuring that their memory lives on.”The unveiling ceremony at Anfield today brought together club representatives, former players, fan representatives and invited guests, as well as representatives from Juventus FC.
Verso Altrove, Juventus’ own new memorial to the victims of the Heysel Disaster, was unveiled last year.LFC ambassador Ian Rush, who played in the 1985 European Cup final and witnessed the events of that day, said: “Today is a deeply moving moment. Attendees were then invited to view the sculpture up close and spend time in quiet reflection.The unveiling of ‘Forever Bound’ reaffirms Liverpool FC’s commitment to remembering those who lost their lives at Heysel and ensuring that the lessons and legacy of that tragedy continue to be acknowledged with dignity and respect, a club spokesman said.