Lucas Radebe - This Is My Hero

Leeds United football fans have unveiled a new mural of one of their cult heroes to celebrate diversity in the city in a project funded by the Fans for Diversity campaign.

The Leeds United Supporters’ Trust have created another mural due for completion next week and this time it’s dedicated to Leeds United legend “The Chief” Lucas Radebe.

Designed by Adam Duffield, the mural is part of an ongoing project to celebrate the rich history of Leeds United across the city, using different types of art.

The mural has been fully funded by the Fans for Diversity campaign, a partnership between the Football Supporters’ Association and Kick It Out to promote inclusivity in the game.

Owing to Radebe’s educational and anti-racism work while playing for Leeds United, the trust felt that Lucas was the perfect symbol for inclusivity in the city and were delighted the project received funding.

“I am very proud and honoured to be chosen as the subject for the latest mural from the Leeds United Supporters’ Trust,” Lucas said.

“I have been a passionate anti-racism campaigner during my playing career at Leeds and since I have retired, so I am delighted that this mural will stand as a symbol for the message of inclusivity and diversity.”

The 35ft mural is painted on the side of Sweeney Todd Barbers on Potternewton Lane in Chapel Allerton where owner Richard Dwyer became a friend to Lucas during his time at Leeds.

Lucas Radebe left a long-lasting legacy as a cult hero across the city and especially amongst Leeds United fans, so much so that many fans named their sons after him. There are now hundreds of Lucases around the city, so the trust invited junior members and fans called Lucas to put their handprints around the mural and sign their name.

https://thefsa.org.uk/news/leeds-mural-celebrates-anti-racism-work-of-the-chief/