To mark the 41st anniversary of the Heysel Stadium disaster, Liverpool FC have today ceremonially opened a new memorial at Anfield honoring the 39 supporters who lost their lives on May 29, 1985 at Heysel.
The memorial is named “Forever Bound” and stands near the Anfield Road End at the ground in an area specifically designated for remembrance and reflection in the wake of the disaster. The memorial features all 39 names of those who lost their lives in the disaster, and is made from Italian-sourced
Carrara in a nod to Juventus.
Spirit of Shankly and other fan groups (as well as former players) were involved in the creation of a new memorial as many felt a more visible marker was due. Representatives of LFC were joined by those from Juventus to open the memorial today, echoing the opening of Juventus’s own new memorial, called “Verso Altrove,” which was unveiled last year to mark the 40th anniversary.
Liverpool CEO Billy Hogan addressed the gathered group, emphasizing the importance and resonance of the day:
“It is a privilege to unveil ‘Forever Bound’ today on behalf of everyone at Liverpool Football Club,” said Hogan. “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.”
Ian Rush, an ambassador for the club who played on the day of the stadium disaster, also addressed the group from the perspective of a witness: “Today is a deeply moving moment. It’s hard to believe over 40 years have passed since Heysel, but the memory of that day never fades.
“This new memorial means a great deal to all of us. The thought and respect that has gone into ‘Forever Bound’ is something I’m incredibly proud of and I hope it brings comfort to those still affected by this tragedy.”
The club website notes that this ceremony and the memorial itself is central to the club as a whole: “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.”
