Oxford United apologises after launching and then withdrawing a “United 93” clothing collection around the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. The club says it pulled the “Campus Collection” from sale shortly after the designs were discovered.
The range included sportswear items such as an American football jersey and a baseball-style jersey featuring the phrase “United 93.” Outlets report the collection was removed from sale within hours, including from online listing, after the phrase was recognised as referring to United Airlines Flight 93, one of the hijacked planes during the 2001 attacks.
The club’s apology cites a lack of understanding of the historical context and associations tied to the branding. It says the items should not have reached point of sale and that the club takes responsibility for not completing proper due diligence. Oxford United also states it is reviewing its approval processes to prevent similar issues. All reports note the apology and removal followed public attention around the anniversary commemorations.
