Cardiff City Fans Vent Fury at Owner Vincent Tan Following Relegation to League One
Cardiff City Stadium was a scene of heartbreak and anger as the club’s relegation to League One was officially confirmed this weekend, with fans’ frustrations boiling over and players left visibly distraught on the pitch. The emotional scenes at the final whistle encapsulated a season punctuated by disappointment and disillusionment, as well as growing discontent with the club’s ownership.
As the referee blew for full time, confirming Cardiff’s fate, a chorus of “Vincent Tan, get out of our club!” rang out from the stands. The chant, far from an isolated outburst, captured a mood of resentment towards the owner, whose 15-year tenure has been increasingly scrutinised in recent years. Fans’ anger was especially palpable not only because of the relegation but also due to Tan’s rare appearances — with figures stating he has only attended two matches in six years.
On the pitch, the impact of relegation could be seen etched onto the faces of the Cardiff players. Yousef Salech, who has consistently given his all in the City shirt, was inconsolable, seeking the comfort of teammate Chris Gunter. Gunter, despite only recently joining the club’s staff, shares a deep connection with Cardiff and knows just how much the club means to its supporters. Meanwhile, Ollie Tanner appeared unable to face the crowd, hiding his face in his hands, while Rubin Colwill, a Cardiff City player since primary school, had to be helped to his feet by his teammates. The emotional toll of the club’s dire season and the resulting relegation was felt by all.
Saturday began with hopes hanging by a thread, already sullied by an ominous result elsewhere. Luton Town’s late winner against Coventry City earlier in the day made the task facing Cardiff almost impossible. Fans anxiously compared permutations on their phones before kick-off, some clinging to the faint hope of survival, while others prepared themselves for inevitable disappointment. As news circulated through the stadium, resignation seemed to settle in, with many supporters coming to terms with relegation before a ball had even been kicked in anger at Cardiff City Stadium.
Those in attendance witnessed an atmosphere increasingly tinged with toxicity. West Bromwich Albion’s fans taunted the home crowd with chants of “You’re going down!” within the opening moments. In response, the home support turned its ire toward the top of the hierarchy, with renewed calls for Tan to step down echoing through the terraces. Sandwiched between songs of protest were tributes to club legends and defiant chants vowing continued support, serving as a reminder of Cardiff’s proud tradition and passionate fanbase.
Throughout the season, supporters’ unrest has been growing. Two organised protests against the ownership have taken place, and a very public dispute played out between the club’s board and the Supporters’ Trust during the Christmas period over a lack of communication. The relegation was not down to a single poor performance, but rather a culmination of mismanagement and a perceived lack of direction.
With the club facing the prospect of finishing bottom of the table—a shocking result by any standards—many are reflecting on missed opportunities and repeated warnings that went unheeded. The collective sense is that, for many fans, this day felt inevitable after a series of neglectful decisions both on and off the pitch.
Adding to the sense of irony, this evening sees the club’s annual awards event held at the same stadium, with players and board members expected to attend. Notably absent, however, is owner Vincent Tan. For many, it is a painful reminder of the disconnect at the heart of the club, as supporters are left to ‘lick their wounds’ after another dark chapter in Cardiff City’s recent history.
Yet, even as the stadium emptied amidst protest songs and tears, the passion of Cardiff’s loyal supporters was undimmed. The final whistle was marked not solely by lament but also by a rousing chorus of “I’m City ’til I die,” embodying the spirit that, for many, transcends divisions and results. As the club faces a new reality next season, those steadfast fans will be needed more than ever—picks, shovels, and all—to help their club rebuild and revive its fortunes.