Nottingham Forest’s bid to overturn their four-point deduction for breaching Premier League profit and sustainability rules has been unsuccessful, as an appeal board upheld the original decision. The club’s case, which was heard on April 24, sought to contest the sanction imposed by an independent commission, but the appeal board deemed the original ruling to be “commendably clear and comprehensive,” leading to the continuation of the points deduction.
Forest’s breach stemmed from losses incurred during the 2022-23 season, which exceeded the permitted threshold by £34.5 million. Despite facing the prospect of relegation following the deduction, the club remains in 17th place, holding a three-point lead over the relegation zone with two games remaining in the season.
The Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules allow clubs to incur losses up to £105 million over a three-season period, with Forest’s maximum loss capped at £61 million due to their tenure in the Championship. Despite a reduction in the initial six-point deduction to four points as a result of an “early plea” and cooperation, Forest’s appeal to reverse the penalty has been unsuccessful.
This resolution comes amidst a period of controversy for Forest, following a social media post questioning the integrity of the video assistant referee (VAR) after a match against Everton. Despite these challenges, Forest remains focused on their upcoming fixtures against Chelsea and Burnley as they seek to secure their Premier League status for the next season.
However, the uncertainty surrounding points deductions and subsequent appeals has drawn criticism from players like Andros Townsend, who described it as making “a mockery of the Premier League.” As the season nears its conclusion, the relegation battle intensifies, with Forest and other clubs vying to secure their top-flight status amidst the ongoing challenges.