Fergie pleads with fans to call off Cheltenham protest

ALEX FERGUSON has pleaded with Manchester United fans to call off their planned protest on Cheltenham Gold Cup Day.

Supporters had been planning a demonstration on the final day of the Festival meeting in retribution for Ferguson’s ongoing legal battle with John Magnier, and the threat of a takeover of Manchester United by Magnier and his business partner JP McManus.

“The Cheltenham Festival is a classic meeting in the National Hunt racing calendar, which people from all over the world and all walks of life come to enjoy,” said Ferguson in a statement.

“It is effectively the equivalent of the FA Cup final to horse racing fans and I would not wish this special festival to be marred in any way. I am therefore asking supporters to refrain from any form of protest and am strongly opposed to any violent, unlawful or disruptive behaviour which may reflect badly on the club and its supporters in general.”

It had been reported earlier this week that Cheltenham officials had given permission for a demonstration.

But Ferguson’s call is bound to have an effect on the planned protest, scheduled to take place around the time the Stayers’ Hurdle was due to be run, in which McManus’ Baracouda will aim for a third successive victory.

“My current dispute with John Magnier is a private matter not involving the club and its supporters and I am concerned first and foremost to protect and serve the best interests and further success of the club,” added Ferguson.

The dispute between Ferguson and Magnier over the stud rights to record- breaking stallion Rock of Gibraltar is still set to end up in the High Court.