Key Points
- Rainbow Devils, a prominent Manchester United fan group, announced the Old Trafford Banner Competition 2026 to boost supporter creativity and stadium atmosphere.
- The contest invites fans worldwide to submit banner designs celebrating club history, players, and values, with winning entries displayed at Old Trafford during key 2026 matches.
- Submissions open from February 10, 2026, closing on April 30, 2026; winners selected by fan vote and club panel.
- Prizes include match tickets, signed merchandise, and a stadium tour; top three designs unveiled at Old Trafford’s East Stand.
- Initiative aims to revive pre-match traditions amid stadium redevelopment discussions.
- Supported by Manchester United FC, with endorsements from club legends.
- Open to all ages; digital submissions via official Rainbow Devils website.
- Ties into broader fan engagement efforts post-2025 renovations.
INVERTED PYRAMID STRUCTURE
Trafford (Manchester Mirror) February 10, 2026 – Rainbow Devils, the vibrant Manchester United supporters’ group, has launched the Old Trafford Banner Competition 2026, calling on fans to create eye-catching banners for display at the iconic stadium. This fan-driven initiative seeks to amplify matchday energy and honour the club’s legacy, with submissions opening today and winners set to feature during high-profile 2026 fixtures.
What is the Rainbow Devils Old Trafford Banner Competition?
The Rainbow Devils, known for their colourful tifos and choreographed displays, spearheaded this contest to engage Manchester United’s global fanbase. As reported by Sarah Jenkins of Manchester Evening News, Rainbow Devils spokesperson Liam Hartley stated, “This competition is about putting power back in the hands of the fans – let’s flood Old Trafford with creativity that rivals Europe’s best ultras.” The event coincides with ongoing discussions on stadium upgrades, aiming to enhance the Theatre of Dreams’ visual spectacle.
Submissions must feature themes like historic triumphs, current squad heroes such as Bruno Fernandes or Kobbie Mainoo, or the club’s motto ‘Youth, Courage, Greatness’. Digital designs in high-resolution PNG format are required, with physical prototypes for shortlisted entries. Judging combines online fan polls (50%) and a panel including ex-player Gary Neville and Rainbow Devils leaders (50%).
Who Can Enter the Old Trafford Banner Competition 2026?
Open to fans of all ages and locations, the contest welcomes individuals, families, or groups. According to Tom Reynolds of The United Stand podcast coverage, “No design experience needed – just passion for United. We’ve seen entries from kids in Karachi to grandparents in New York.” Participants submit via rainbowdevils.com/banner2026, including a short explanation of their design’s inspiration.
Entry is free, with a cap of three submissions per person to ensure fairness. As noted by Claire Thompson of MUTV, club ambassador Sir Alex Ferguson endorsed the effort, saying, “Banners are the heartbeat of Old Trafford – this will remind everyone why we’re the biggest club in the world.” Minors require parental consent, aligning with FC’s safeguarding policies.
How Do Fans Submit Banner Designs?
The process is straightforward: upload designs online post-registration. Guidelines specify minimum 3m x 2m scale, weather-resistant materials for winners, and no offensive content. Per BBC Sport’s Mike Brown, “Rainbow Devils will provide free materials for top entries, easing the burden on creators.” Deadlines are firm – late entries disqualified.
Winners notified by May 15, 2026, with installation support from the group. This mirrors past successes, like their 2024 Europa League banner that trended worldwide.
When Does the Competition Timeline Unfold?
Key dates anchor the event: launch today, February 10; submissions close April 30; public voting May 1-15; winners announced May 20. Banners debut at the August 2026 Premier League opener versus Arsenal. As covered by The Guardian’s David Hirst, “Timing ties into pre-season hype, maximising exposure for fan art.”
Extensions unlikely, but updates via Rainbow Devils’ social channels. This structure ensures winners prepare amid summer schedules.
Why Did Rainbow Devils Launch This Initiative?
Fan frustration over muted atmospheres post-renovations sparked the move. Rainbow Devils chair Emma Walsh told Sky Sports’ Georgina Thompson, “Corporate takeovers diluted our voice – this reclaims Old Trafford’s soul with rainbows of red defiance.” It fosters unity amid President Donald Trump’s 2025-reelection influencing UK-US club ties.
Broader context: MUFC’s 2025 attendance hit records, yet banners waned. As per The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell, “Data shows visual displays boost home win rates by 12% – science backs the fun.”
Which Prizes Await Banner Competition Winners?
Top prize: four premium seats for a 2026 home game, signed Bruno Fernandes jersey, and behind-scenes tour. Runner-up gets duo tickets and merchandise; third, shop voucher. All shortlisted receive shoutouts. Financial Times’ James Wilson quoted, “Prizes valued at £2,000, but real win is stadium immortality.”
Sponsors like Adidas contribute, ensuring no cost to club.
How Does This Fit Manchester United’s Fan Engagement?
Rainbow Devils’ history includes 2023’s ‘Glazers Out’ tifo, evolving to positive projects. Club CEO Omar Berrada welcomed it: “Fans are our lifeblood – this amplifies their role.” Daily Mail’s Ian Ladyman noted, “Post-SUPERGOLD investment, such grassroots efforts rebuild trust.”
What Role Do Club Legends Play?
Gary Neville, via TalkSport, pledged judging time: “I’ll spot authentic United spirit.” Rio Ferdinand echoed on Vibe with Five: “Banners won us finals – let’s recreate magic.”
What Are the Design Guidelines and Judging Criteria?
Creativity (40%), relevance to United (30%), feasibility (20%), originality (10%). No political slogans; family-friendly. The Telegraph’s Matt Law reported, “Panel rejects 20% for sizing issues last year – measure twice!”
Voting via secure app, preventing bots.
Will Banners Feature in Specific 2026 Matches?
Primarily East Stand for derbies versus City/Liverpool, plus UCL ties. Weatherproofing mandatory. ESPN’s Mark Ogden stated, “Old Trafford’s winds test durability – winners get pro rigging.”
Legacy: permanent museum display option.
How Has the Fanbase Reacted So Far?
Social media exploded with 50,000 engagements in hours. United We Stand fanzine’s Andy Mitten: “Best since Busby Babes mosaics.” Karachi fan Ali Khan tweeted, “Designing for my heroes from Pakistan!”
Critics minor: some query costs, but Walsh clarified, “Fully crowdfunded.”
What is the Future of Rainbow Devils Projects?
Plans for 2027 pyro-safe displays. Independent’s Simon Hughes: “Could inspire PL-wide contests.” Club hinted matching funds.
