Foxes Trust Statement
Supporters Direct, the umbrella group for Supporters' Trusts in the UK, has had its primary source of funding withdrawn at short notice by the Football Stadia Improvement Fund (FSIF), an arm of the Premier League. This follows reports of a series of comments posted on Twitter by SD's Chief Executive, Dave Boyle, in a personal capacity, following the promotion of AFC Wimbledon to the Football League. Despite Boyle resigning from his post as a result of his remarks, FSIF have announced an end to their funding, leaving Supporters Direct at a very real risk of closure.
The response by the Premier League appears to be at best disproportionate and at worst opportunistic and politically motivated – SD has been an effective lobbying organisation whose aims understandably differ from those of the League from time to time.
Foxes Trust Chairman, Ian Bason, who served on the Interim Board when the Foxes Trust was formed stated “In common with almost 180 trusts around the country, The Foxes Trust would not have been created without the help, advice, support and encouragement of Supporters Direct and its staff. This proved invaluable in 2002 when the Trust was part of the recovery of Leicester City Football Club from Administration.
We add our voice to those calling on the FSIF to reconsider its decision. We note that supporting co-operative ownership by fans is an aim shared by all three major political parties and is mentioned in the current government’s coalition agreement…..
At a time when billions of pounds are spent in the top division of our national sport on players' wages alone we urge the Premier League, via the FSIF, to reinstate this relatively small sum for vital work that has ensured the survival of more than 50 clubs around the country.”
Foxes Trust Board Member, Stuart Dawkins, who attended a recent Supporters Direct hosted event at Parliament along with 4 local MP’s who were our guests, has contacted each MP over the withdrawal of funding threat.
In response we have received promises from them that the matter will be brought up with the Sports Minister, Hugh Robertson, on our behalf.
More information on the background to this story is available at …