John Henry slammed by Dave Portnoy after Liverpool fan protests

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Dave Portnoy has questioned John Henry's intentions with Liverpool after reacting to the fan protest over ticket prices, claiming he is ruining the club for a "couple more bucks"

John Henry and FSG have been called out by American businessman Dave Portnoy(Image: 2025 Getty Images)

American businessman and social media personality Dave Portnoy has called for Fenway Sports Group to sell Liverpool after reacting to Saturday's fan protest over ticket prices.

Liverpool beat Crystal Palace 3-1 at Anfield on Saturday to move fourth in the Premier League, but the win was overshadowed by Mohamed Salah's injury. The Liverpool legend felt his hamstring and appeared emotional when leaving the field, with only four games remaining until he departs the club.

However, early in the first half, Liverpool fans conducted a protest in the 13th minute after recent price increases were announced. Liverpool CEO Billy Hogan was inside the stadium at the time, and John Henry's face was printed on cards held up by supporters.

Thousands of fans held up yellow cards distributed around Anfield before kick-off. The cards displayed a photo of principal owner John Henry with his fingers in his ears, with the words, "Caution, Anfield’s soul is at risk."

This same message was shown on a van fitted with electronic screens outside Liverpool's training ground as head coach Arne Slot spoke to reporters on Friday. As fans held the cards up in the 13th minute, some chanted: "Enough is enough, enough is enough."

Several fan groups organized the protest, but other demonstrations are already underway. Spion Kop 1906 continued its boycott of pregame flags and banners on the Kop while You'll Never Walk Alone is sung.

Liverpool fans held up cards in protest during the 13th minute(Image: 2026 Getty Images)

Other fans have stopped purchasing concessions at Anfield, with videos surfacing on social media of some being called out for continuing to buy food and drink. Liverpool fans are known for their loyal support, but have protested over concerns about future affordability while also feeling let down by the owners.

Portnoy saw the protest on X and responded to it by calling out FSG.

"I just don’t get why a billionaire needs to get involved in legacy/historic sports franchises and ruin them and make everybody hate his guts to squeeze out a couple more bucks? Stick with commodity trading. #selltheteam," Portnoy wrote.

The protest has stemmed from Liverpool announcing that ticket prices will increase by three percent next season. The club has also set a five percent annual cap for the next three years, bringing greater uncertainty over future pricing.

FSG could increase prices for the next three seasons without any communication with fans, and supporters are desperate not to lose their connection to the club. Matchday revenue accounts for a considerable share of Liverpool's income, but it's approximately 16-17 percent.

Protests are expected to continue until the end of the season or until the club responds to the ongoing action. Liverpool has four games remaining, but only two at Anfield.

Liverpool faces Manchester United at Old Trafford before hosting Chelsea at Anfield. The season wraps up with a trip to Aston Villa before finishing the season at Anfield against Brentford.