Nottingham Forest Prevail in High-Profile Case Against Football Association, Earning Six-Figure Payout
Nottingham Forest have secured a significant victory in a landmark legal case against the Football Association, with the governing body ordered to pay more than £100,000 in costs after a finding of apparent bias.
The case stems from Forest’s appeal against a £750,000 fine imposed last season after the club criticised the appointment of referee Stuart Attwell for their match against Everton. Forest argued the sanction was “wholly disproportionate” and raised concerns about neutrality after Attwell’s support for relegation rivals Luton Town was highlighted.
Independent Tribunal Ruling
During the appeals process, the panel’s independent chair, barrister Graeme McPherson KC, described elements of Forest’s case as “somewhat hysterical”. That remark became the focus of Forest’s complaint, with the club claiming it created a perception of unfairness.
An independent arbitration tribunal has now agreed with Forest, ruling that McPherson’s language amounted to apparent bias and should not have been used. As a result, the FA must pay Forest’s legal costs, their own fees, and a further £105,750 plus VAT to cover the tribunal itself.
The finding is regarded as a rare and important ruling against football’s governing body, raising fresh questions about disciplinary processes at the highest level.
Club and Ownership Strengthened
For Forest, it represents more than a financial outcome. The judgment is being seen as a vindication for owner Evangelos Marinakis, who has long argued that the club deserves to be treated on equal terms with others in the Premier League.
The club believes the ruling underscores their stance on fairness and transparency, and offers reassurance to supporters that Forest are prepared to defend their interests robustly off the pitch as well as on it.
Wider Implications
The FA must now appoint a new chair for Forest’s appeal, which will continue under different leadership. The case is also likely to set a precedent for how comments from panel members are scrutinised in future disciplinary hearings.
For Forest, however, the result is being celebrated as a milestone moment. The club has not only reduced the shadow of a heavy financial sanction, but also forced English football’s authorities to reflect on their own standards.
