It is nearly 26 years since the Leeds United supporters lost their lives while following the club in Turkey
Isaac Johnson Leeds United reporter
16:00, 19 Mar 2026
Leeds United fans hold up banners in tribute to Christopher Loftus and Kevin Speight(Image: Malcolm Bryce – LUFC/Leeds United via Getty Images)
Leeds United will mark the anniversary of the death of much-loved supporters Christopher Loftus and Kevin Speight, who passed away while following their team 26 years ago.
The avid Whites fans were killed ahead of United’s UEFA Cup semi-final against Galatasaray in Turkey on April 5, 2000. The club is continuing to keep the memories of both men alive with further tributes this year, during Saturday’s Premier League game against Brentford at Elland Road.
There will be a minute’s applause ahead of kick-off while another tribute will be shown on the big screen in the 26th minute. The families of both Chris and Kevin will be in attendance.
Leeds chairman Paraag Marathe and managing director Robbie Evans will lay wreaths in front of the East Stand plaque commemorating Chris and Kevin ahead of the game. The captains of both teams will then also lay wreaths by the side of the dugouts ahead of kick-off.
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Saturday will be the final home game ahead of the 26th anniversary of their passing, which will fall on Leeds’ FA Cup quarter-final trip to West Ham United on April 5, Easter Sunday. Talks between the two clubs are underway in regards to tributes on the day.
A Leeds United club statement explained: “On the 26th anniversary, Sunday 5th April, Leeds United play West Ham United at the London Stadium (4:30pm) in the FA Cup quarter-final.
“The club are currently in positive dialogue with West Ham United, to pay respects appropriately with the laying of two wreaths in front of the away end ahead of kick-off. Chris and Kev will never be forgotten.”