Ellis Park deaths recalled as memory fades.

In memoriam: A floral tribute on the Ellis Park pitch the day after 43 people lost their lives in a stampede. Picture: REUTERS

Tuesday, which marked the 16th year since the Ellis Park Stadium tragedy and which should be acknowledged as one of the darkest hours in South African sport, once again went by almost unnoticed.

The response to April 11 has become increasingly muted each year.

The families of the 43 fans who died in a stampede triggered by huge crowds at a league match between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs at the stadium in 2001 would be forgiven if the day leaves a bad taste in their mouth.

Robin Petersen‚ then CEO of the Premier Soccer League (PSL)‚ said the disaster remained one of the lowest points of his professional career.

"For five years every year we did a commemoration, but then the two clubs took the decision [not to continue the annual commemorations]‚" he said.

"At that stage, I was no longer part of the football structures.

"I am not sure what the reasons were, but I was not part of that decision."

Chiefs players and their technical team held a moment of silence after a training session on Tuesday morning.




Full story at Business Live.
By Mahlatse Mphahlele and Mninawa Ntloko.