Third-tier English soccer team Oxford United apologized for releasing an apparel line featuring the slogan "United 93" in reference to the club's founding in 1893 – due to the connotation of United Airlines Flight 93, one of the highjacked planes on Sept. 11, 2001.
"The range was released without understanding of the historical context and associations," the club said in a statement. "It should not have reached the point of sale and we take full responsibility for not undertaking proper due diligence."
"We have removed the collection with immediate effect and are reviewing our approval processes to ensure nothing like this happens again. Once again, we would like to put on record our sincere apologies for this error and for any offense caused."
The United Airlines flight was one of four planes hijacked by terrorists on the morning of Sept. 11, and it crashed in a field in rural Shanksville, Pennsylvania, killing all 44 people on board. The flight was originally scheduled from Newark, New Jersey to San Francisco.
Passengers attempted to wrestle control of the Boeing 757 back from the terrorists, who had set a course for Washington, D.C. The terrorists crashed the plane in the ensuing struggle.
The Flight 93 National Memorial in Somerset County, Pennsylvania was built to honor the passengers and crew, and the site is currently operated by the National Parks Service.
Oxford United currently plays in England's League One, the third tier, after being relegated from the second division last season. Former Arsenal and Wales great Aaron Ramsey is the club's new manager, taking over in June following the team's relegation.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Soccer team apologizes for 'United 93' clothing line near 9/11 anniversary
