Fans Call for Boycott of Key Match Amid Ownership Dissatisfaction

Supporters of a Premier League club are urging fans to boycott their upcoming crucial match as protests escalate against the club’s current ownership. The group, known as Hammers United and representing around 20,000 supporters, plans to stay away from the home game against Brentford on October 20, citing concerns over the club’s future.

The fans express fear that the club will “die” if the current majority owner, David Sullivan, and vice-chair Karren Brady, remain in charge. They also plan to protest during the game against Crystal Palace at the London Stadium on September 20.

Hammers United criticizes the club’s recent trajectory, blaming the move from their historic Boleyn Ground to the London Stadium in 2016 for the decline. They argue the stadium is unsuitable for football, as it was originally designed for athletics, and lament that the club does not own it. Supporters feel betrayed by promises of a “world-class stadium” that have not materialized after ten years.

“The club is in serious decline, losing long-term fans, facing relegation battles, and exiting cups early,” said Paul Colborne, chair of Hammers United. “Sullivan and Brady’s leadership is pushing the club towards its demise.”

The supporters have previously demonstrated, including a notable protest in 2020 against Sullivan and former owner David Gold, who passed away in 2023. A petition earlier this year collected nearly 14,000 signatures demanding Sullivan sell his shares and for Brady to be removed.

While the club has experienced some success, such as winning the Europa Conference League in 2023 and making European runs under managers Slaven Bilic and David Moyes, recent performance has raised concerns. Currently, West Ham is positioned 16th in the league after a shaky start to the season, prompting fears of a relegation fight.

The supporters’ movement reflects deep dissatisfaction with the club’s management, emphasizing the need to preserve their identity and ensure a proud home for fans.

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A supporter group is demanding a boycott and protests against the current ownership.

Many feel the move has compromised the club’s heritage.