Boddy: City Won't Be Allowed To Play Home Games Outside of Coventry

Last updated : 24 November 2018 By CNS Sport

Coventry City CEO David Boddy has said via his programme notes that the Sky Blues will not be allowed to play home games outside of Coventry if the club cannot not agree a deal to remain at the Ricoh Arena.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Boddy, who is also CEO of Sky Blues In The Community, penned the following, which for those who did not get a copy of the programme against Peterborough United can be found below:

"The topic at the forefront of everyone's mind is still the future of the club at the Ricoh Arena. The Football Club's intention is to play at the Ricoh Arena, and commit to a deal beyond this season. This is our focus and aim, and I know it is some all fans and fan group are supportive of.

As I write these notes, we await the decision of the club owner's regarding the court case and if they will choose to appeal the most recent judgement.

To reiterate, the Club, its senior management and its staff have no involvement, knowledge or say in the legal process, and if it continues or not. Sisu has total control of the legal process, instructions to the legal counsel and Sisu cover all legal costs.

As Chief Executive, alongside the Chairman, we are making representations on the stadium issue and legal position directly with the shareholders at Board level through Otium Entertainment and Sky Blue Sport & Leisure. 

There, unfortunately, has been no negotiations with Wasps but I have met with several Wasps Directors, who have told me the position of the court case with the owners.

I have made it clear that the Football Club is not involved in the legal proceedings, and our desire to stay at the Ricoh Arena, and create a stronger relationship between the two organisations.

This is something which has improved over the last 18 months, despite the circumstances we find ourselves in. Our day ot day working relationship is excellent.  

Coventry City Football Club comes first above everything else. I'm sure you will agree. It is inperative that a deal is agreed and we stay at the Ricoh Arena. The EFL havr made very clear in writing that a groundshare outside of Coventry is not and will not be an optio - even if it was, it's not an option we are interested in. We want to stay at the Ricoh Arena.

For the avoidance of doubt to everyone in Coventry & Warwickshire who carws about the football club, failure to reach an ageement to play at the Ricoh Arena next season will mean that the club's place in the EFL is at risk.

We know the value that we bring to the stadium and Wasps, which is a vital part of the revenue streams - not just in terms of rent, but matchday income and footfall we bring to the stadium, as well as significant contributions to stadium costs such as pitch maintenance and pitch lighting.

But more importantly, we know the value  the club brings to the community. As I have said before, we saw this during May with the Play-Off Final win and thousands at Wembley, followed by 50,000 on the streets for the bus parade and what this club means to the community.

Whether, an appeal takes place or not, I truly believe that everyone - Sisu, Wasps, Coventry City Council, MP's or anyone - wants to see Coventry City Football Club to continue and to continue to play at the Ricoh Arena.

As we showed when we agreed the current deal when there is a will, there is a way."

 

 

 

 

Picture copyright of CNS Sport.