Fans react as new Oxford United chairman appointed

Bogdanovic takes the wheel after, it is understood, he was chief executive officer of Indonesian club Garudayaksa’s foundation and already had a relationship with U’s owner Erick Thohir.

The two were pictured with each other alongside FIFA president Gianni Infantino in December 2024.

Ferguson, who was chairman at Oxford for four years and enjoyed promotion to the Championship in that period, will remain at the club as a member of the board and is joined by another new name in Rudi Laksmana.

Laksmana, it is understood, is another Indonesian figure who was on the board at Italian giants Inter Milan, as was Ferguson before joining Oxford.

Former Oxford United chairman Grant Ferguson (Image: Oxford United)

With questions around the reasoning for reshuffling and new appointments still lingering, fans have reacted to the recent news.

The Oxford United Supporters Trust, OxVox, posted a statement on X on Thursday morning which read: “Thank you to Grant Ferguson for everything he has done as chairman over the past four years, guiding the development of Oxford United on and off the pitch.

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“We are seeking talks with the club to understand the detail behind this decision and to hear the vision for the future with the new board.”

The club have remained tight-lipped on any further information than what was said in Wednesday’s statement.

“These appointments reflect Oxford United’s continued focus on strengthening its leadership, governance and long-term planning,” read the statement on the club’s website.

The appointments of the new chair and Laksmana of an ‘ongoing commitment to driving football performance, improving strategic direction and progression both on and off the pitch’, say the club.

Jem Faulkner, chair of trustees at Oxford United in the Community, stated: “Very disappointed to hear that Grant Ferguson is stepping down as chairman at Oxford United.

Oxford United owner Erick Thohir (Image: Steve Daniels)

“A good man. Intelligent, calm, great with people and a real friend to Oxford United in the Community.

“I sincerely hope his board role lets him continue to play an active and influential role in our club.”

One fan was sceptical about the new arrivals, saying: “Not convinced with the new chairman, some guy who’s been a CEO at a second division Indonesian team and ‘brings bags of experience’.”

Another commented: “As a season ticket holder for years, I have absolutely no idea who actually controls this club. I’m actually worried for our future.”

The Oxford Mail is aiming to find out more on the story and will continue to post updates regarding the new appointments as they come.