Skankin Sam and PR Pete talk to the fans.

A Statement from Peter Ridsdale
22nd October 2006

Sam Hammam's decision to accept the offer to dilute his shareholding, in exchange for new investment in the club, is typical of his love for the fans and his desire to see both the short and long term future of the club secured.

Sam has sacrificed his own position in order that the club is in a position to fulfil his 'dream'. Of course Sam could have stayed, but in those circumstances achieving our aims would not only have taken longer but would have created more uncertainty. A little like any parents, Sam has taken the only route that secures the future of his 'baby'. Sam has sacrificed his football life in Cardiff and Wales.

Sam had the vision for our new stadium. When it is completed, everyone will remember that it is his stadium. His original vision and financial risk is what has put us on the verge of not only a new stadium but also the Premier League.

When Sam arrived we were languishing in League Two. Sam has given not only the people of Cardiff but also the whole of Wales, the belief that we can achieve his dream. In the end Sam has sacrificed his personal position for the greater good. Few people would do that and it is a testimony to the man, that this is what he has done. Sam knew that this club needed new investment to take it forward. This is a massive club with even more potential. By stepping aside now, he has given us a chance to achieve everything that has been dreamt about. Whatever happens, Sam will be ever remembered as the man who created the new Cardiff City. The 'dream' was his and when achieved will be remembered as his.

Sam is an 'all or nothing man' and with new investors it was not possible for him to remain. He therefore agreed to this personal sacrifice.

Sam is understandably sad and devastated at this time but knew that it was for the best for the Club and the fans. Sam forged a unique rapport with the supporters including his legendary walks through the wonderful Welsh Countryside.

In making personal sacrifices for the greater good it takes a big man. Sam is such a person.

Sam gave me the opportunity to get back into football and restore a reputation that had more recently taken a severe knock. I will never forget that. I am also now acutely aware of the tremendous responsibility that I now inherit. To all of our supporters, please rest assured that I recognise how privileged I am to be given the opportunity to take this Club forward. With Dave and the rest of our staff, we will deliver.

Peter Ridsdale

And from Sam -

A Statement from Sam Hammam
22nd October 2006

Sometimes in life a man faces the prospect of having to make tough decisions. This is such a time! Last Friday 20th October 2006 was such a day! On that day I resigned as Chairman and a Director of Cardiff City Football Club. I was replaced by my good friend Peter Ridsdale.

The only thing in my mind was to do what is best for the fans and the club. I have agreed for new investors to inject new monies into the club. This agreement will be concluded as soon as possible but no later than the end of this year.

The club at the moment is facing three very important events, all at the same time:

1. Getting the best possible stadium under way

2. Keeping our possible promotion push going

3. Taking care of our long term debts

The new investors can deliver all three. They have the muscle to do it. These people have the Club's interest at heart and have acknowledged the Club's massive potential.

I am a man with strong financial clout but nevertheless nowhere near what is needed for the club to go forward.

Very simply, this club in common with many big clubs, proved to be far too big for one individual to handle - unless of course you are an Abramovich or a Glazier. I am not that and in effect I pumped up the club prospects to such a level that it became too big and powerful for me to handle. The club has outgrown me!

While I feel very sad, in fact shattered about all of this - it was clear to me that I had to do this for the sake of my Cardiff family. A few tears have been shed and will be shed but the club and the fans will be much better for it.

For what I am giving up, the club will have a bigger and brighter future.

SAM</p>



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And we thought we were being taken for idiots!</p>