Nottingham Forest’s attempt to reverse their four-point deduction for violating financial regulations during the 2022/23 season has been unsuccessful. This penalty was imposed by an independent commission appointed by the Premier League in March, following Forest’s admission of breaching the Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) by overspending £34.5 million over a three-year period.
Despite facing the possibility of a more severe six-point deduction, Forest received a lesser penalty from the Premier League due to their “early plea” and “excellent cooperation.” However, their appeal, presented during a hearing on April 24, has been dismissed by an independent appeal board, affirming the initial sanction.
In response, Forest argued that the independent commission erred in not considering the sale of a high-profile player shortly after the assessment period as a mitigating factor and in choosing not to suspend any portion of the points deduction. Nevertheless, the appeal board rejected these arguments, concluding that the commission was justified in imposing the penalty immediately.
As a result, Forest maintains their 17th position in the table, remaining three points ahead of Luton Town and the relegation zone with just two matches left in the season. Initially expressing dismay at the Premier League’s handling of the situation and feeling their unique circumstances were overlooked, Forest highlighted the significant disadvantage they faced compared to other Premier League clubs with higher spending limits due to their longer tenure in the top flight.
Nuno Espirito Santo’s team is set to face Chelsea at the City Ground on Saturday before concluding their season with a match against Burnley.