Hair today, gone tomorrow: Man United fan's unique promise goes viral

A MANCHESTER United supporter known as "The United Strand" has been growing his hair for over a year after vowing not to cut it until his team won five consecutive matches.

With millions following his journey, his patience - and hair - continues to grow alongside hopes for his beloved club

Frank Ilett began the light-hearted challenge in October 2024. He vowed not to cut his hair until Manchester United won five matches in a row.

What started as a bit of fun quickly turned into a long-running commitment. Man United struggled to put together a consistent winning streak, and Ilett’s hair continued to grow as the months passed.

“I honestly thought it would have been over much sooner,” Ilett said in his Instagram post, where he documented his journey for millions of his followers.

His challenge gained massive popularity, with football fans around the world following each Manchester United game to see if it would finally be "haircut day.”  

Recently, hope was high when United managed to secure four consecutive victories. Illet was just one win away from ending the challenge.

However, a draw against West Ham United in Tuesday night’s English Premier League game brought the run to a halt, ruining the streak and forcing the challenge to reset.

Despite the disappointment, Ilett has remained upbeat. He has said on Instagram, the challenge reflected the emotional rollercoaster of being a football supporter.

Ilett also revealed that when Manchester United eventually achieved the five-game winning streak, he planned to cut his hair and donate it to charity to help children who had lost their hair due to illness.

For now, his ever-growing hair has become a symbol of loyalty, humour and the unpredictable nature of football.

Fans online continue to cheer, not only for United’s next winning streak, but also for Frank’s long-waited trip to the barber.

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