Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis has publicly vowed to provide full financial support to any club supporters who were caught up in the mass-stabbing incident aboard a train near Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire.
The attack took place on a Saturday evening aboard an London North Eastern Railway (LNER) service bound for London, shortly after Nottingham Forest had drawn 2-2 at home against Manchester United. Many travelling supporters of Forest were returning home on that train.
A total of eleven people were injured in the incident, some of them seriously, and among them are said to be Forest fans. The club said it was aware “that many individuals demonstrated extraordinary bravery … which undoubtedly helped prevent even greater harm.”
In a statement, Marinakis said: “Everyone at Nottingham Forest is shocked and deeply saddened by what happened. The courage and selflessness shown by our supporters on that train represents the very best of humanity and the very best of our club’s community. We will make sure any supporter caught up in this incident receives whatever financial support they require to enable them to access the best possible medical care as they recover.”
The club also provided contact information for affected supporters to reach its Fan Engagement department for assistance.
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Police have launched a major investigation into the stabbing, declaring a major incident and initially activating the “Plato” protocol (used for marauding attacks) before later rescinding it. They say terrorism is not seen as a motive at this stage.
For the supporters of Nottingham Forest, Sunday’s developments bring a measure of reassurance that the club is standing firmly behind them. As they recover and reflect on a traumatic journey home, this pledge of support may be a critical step in helping them rebuild both physically and emotionally. The broader football community will be watching how the club follows through on its promise in the days ahead.
