Protest planned over ticket prices
PRE-MATCH DISPLAY AGAINST CITY HAS BEEN CANCELLED
SUPPORTERS’ group Forza Garibaldi say they are cancelling plans for a pre-match display at Nottingham Forest’s next home game out of protest at season card prices.
Many fans saw a significant increase in the cost of their season cards when the club announced details of 2024-25 prices on Tuesday. Prices have increased by an average of 24 percent, with the most expensive costing £850 – compared to £660 for the most expensive adult season card this term.
The Reds will still have two games of the campaign remaining by the time the May 10 renewal deadline comes around. There is a distinct possibility the club’s Premier League status could still be up in the air at that point.
The announcement and subsequent social media messages from the club about “record” renewals and a waiting list of “11,000” for season cards have met an angry response. And Forza Garibaldi say they feel compelled to “take a stand” by withdrawing plans for one of their renowned displays before the clash with Manchester City later this month.
In a statement, they said: “To our fellow fans, we are aware that statements and social media disaffection may not be enough to make our frustration clear to the club. The intention here is not just to complain but also take action if necessary.
“As a starting point we are withdrawing plans for flags/banners/ displays for the Manchester City game. While this is far from ideal timing, we feel we have no choice but to take a stand.
“We understand that this may disappoint some of you and also the team who need our support but it is important to us as a group that we are not allowing this decision by the club to go without action.
“While we realise such a step may ultimately be futile, we feel it is appropriate to demonstrate our frustration at this time and will highlight how vital supporters are to the club. We remain eager to maintain these visual displays but only at a point when the club are willing to listen and acknowledge these real concerns from supporters.”
Chairman Tom Cartledge has said: “We aspire to keep our Season Cards amongst the most affordable in the League.
“At the same time, it is imperative that the club continues to grow financially in order to remain competitive, particularly in light of the forthcoming squad cost ratio rules, which will cap spending as a percentage of club revenues.”