Nottingham Forest unveil major City Ground change in a “fitting honour” to a club legend

Nottingham Forest supporters witnessed an emotional moment at the City Ground ahead of the club's final match of the season, as one of the stadium's most recognisable sections officially entered a new era.

The occasion saw the Reds pay tribute to one of the most iconic figures in their history, with supporters, former teammates and family members all coming together to celebrate a player whose name remains intertwined with the club's greatest achievements.

Forest rename Bridgford Stand after John Robertson in City Ground tribute

Nottingham Forest officially unveiled the John Robertson Stand ahead of their clash with AFC Bournemouth after renaming the former Bridgford Stand in honour of the club legend.

Robertson, who passed away on Christmas Day last year aged 72, remains one of the most important figures in Forest history after making 516 appearances and scoring 95 goals for the club.

He played a key role in Brian Clough's famous European Cup-winning side, providing the assist for Trevor Francis' winner against Malmo in 1979 before scoring himself during the victory over Hamburg a year later.

Ahead of kick-off, members of Robertson's family joined former teammates and club officials at the City Ground as supporters paid tribute.

A giant ‘Robertson 11' shirt was displayed on the pitch while chants of “Robbo, Robbo, Robbo” echoed around the stadium, followed by a round of applause and video tributes shown on the big screens.

The new signage also includes Brian Clough's famous description of Robertson as a “Picasso of our game”, with the club completing work on the stand earlier in the week.

Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis had reportedly recommended the name change shortly after Robertson's passing.

Meanwhile, manager Vitor Pereira wrote in the matchday programme: “It is a fitting honour for one of the greatest players ever to wear the shirt, and I know we will all feel his presence today. Robertson is a legend of Nottingham Forest, and we are proud that today is another celebration of his legacy.”

FGG says: A classy and fitting tribute to a Forest legend

Some stand renamings can split opinion, particularly when commercial interests are involved, but this is one decision few Forest supporters will question.

John Robertson was central to the greatest era in the club’s history and remains one of its most cherished figures, so giving his name to a permanent part of the City Ground ensures future generations immediately understand his significance.

Unveiling the change on the final home game of the season also felt entirely appropriate. Rather than a low‑key administrative update, Forest turned it into a celebration of a man who helped shape many of the club’s most iconic moments.