Manchester United issue statement after Phil Downs dies aged 70

Earlier today, news broke that the founder of the Manchester United Disabled Supporters’ Association, Phil Downs, has sadly passed away at 70 years of age.

Issuing a statement on their official website, Manchester United paid respects, saying: “Everyone at Manchester United is profoundly saddened by the loss of our longstanding friend, and Manchester United Disabled Supporters’ Association (MUDSA) founder and former secretary, Phil Downs MBE, who has died at the age of 70.”

The statement continued: “Phil and his brother David followed in their father’s footsteps as Manchester United supporters.

“Phil first visited Old Trafford for a match against Coventry City at the age of 12, proudly taking responsibility for looking after David, who was just eight, as they began a lifelong connection with the club.

“Following a life-changing injury at the age of 18, Phil successfully raised the profile and transformed the perception of disabled football fans, setting the gold standard for accessibility and inclusion across the game.

“In addition to founding MUDSA in 1989 – the first disabled supporters’ association in world football – he was also co-founder of the National Association of Disabled Supporters (now Level Playing Field).”

Downs’ continuous progressive approach helped him to make a lasting difference to countless people, becoming a leading expert in equality legislation and a frequent contributor to academic publications

Then in 2004, his was formally recognised when Her Majesty the Queen awarded him an MBE for services to disabled people.

In 2016, he was immortalised by Manchester United as they renamed part of Old Trafford in his honour to acknowledge his lasting impact on the club.

Unveiled by Sir Alex Ferguson, the Phil Downs Ability Suite provides disabled supporters with facilities and services designed to enhance their matchday experience.

Speaking about the passing of Phil Downs, Omar Berrada commented: “This is very sad news for everyone at Manchester United who knew and worked with Phil.”

He continued: “By founding MUDSA and through his many years working with the club, Phil helped transform football for disabled supporters and set standards that continue to shape accessibility and inclusion in the game today.

“His impact extended far beyond Old Trafford, but nowhere more so than here at United.

“The Phil Downs Ability Suite stands as a lasting reminder of his passion, principles and determination to make everyone feel welcome, and his legacy will always be part of this club.

“The thoughts and condolences of everyone at Manchester United are with Phil’s family and friends at this sad time.”

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