Nottingham Forest Owner Files Libel Suit Over Crystal Palace Fan Banner
Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis has filed a libel lawsuit at London’s High Court against Crystal Palace’s parent company, CPFC Limited, and “Persons Unknown.” The legal action stems from a provocative banner displayed by Crystal Palace supporters during a Premier League match at Selhurst Park in August 2025, according to reports from The Guardian and the BBC. The banner depicted the Greek shipping magnate holding a gun to the head of Nottingham Forest midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White, accompanied by text denying allegations of criminal activity, including match-fixing and drug trafficking.
Legal Basis and Background of the Dispute
The defamation claim follows a period of heightened tensions between the two clubs. According to The Guardian, the dispute originated during the previous summer when Nottingham Forest raised concerns with UEFA regarding multi-club ownership rules, which ultimately led to Crystal Palace being demoted from the Europa League to the Conference League. Nottingham Forest subsequently took their place in the Europa League.
The banner displayed at the match specifically referenced these tensions and included the text: “Mr Marinakis is not involved in blackmail, match-fixing, drug trafficking or corruption.” Marinakis, who acquired Nottingham Forest in 2017 and also owns the Greek club Olympiacos, has consistently denied these allegations, as noted by the BBC.
FA Regulatory Action and Stadium Security
The Football Association (FA) intervened in the matter following the display of the banner. In February 2026, the FA fined Crystal Palace £50,000 for failing to prevent supporters from behaving in an “improper, offensive, abusive, insulting and/or provocative way” at the match, The Guardian reported. The FA’s statement emphasized that the existence of a club policy to prevent prohibited banners from entering the stadium proved that Crystal Palace was aware of the potential risks.
Did you know?
While the banner incident was a significant point of contention, the two clubs have seen recent personnel shifts. Former Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner, who led the team to a Conference League title, has since joined Nottingham Forest after being persuaded by Marinakis, according to comments made by Glasner to The Guardian.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Evangelos Marinakis suing Crystal Palace?
Marinakis is suing for libel regarding a banner displayed by Crystal Palace fans at a match in August 2025. The banner depicted him pointing a gun at a Nottingham Forest player and referenced allegations of criminal conduct that he has previously denied.
What is the status of the legal case?
Lawyers for Marinakis lodged the defamation claim against CPFC Limited and “Persons Unknown” at the London High Court on Monday, August 10, 2026.
Has the Football Association taken action?
Yes, the FA fined Crystal Palace £50,000 in February 2026, citing the club’s failure to prevent offensive and provocative behavior by its spectators.
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