PHOENIX — Frustrated Arizona Cardinals fans have taken their grievances to the streets, funding electronic billboards that demand the team’s owner and president, Michael Bidwill, step down. The red‑and‑white displays, emblazoned with the slogan “SELL THE TEAM. Funded by Cardinals Fans. #BIDWILLOUT,” have appeared near Loop 202 westbound and off Loop 303 in Surprise.
Grassroots fundraising fuels the protest
Local influencer Nathan Kropp, known online as “Mr. Az Sports,” organized the campaign after attending a recent home loss to the Detroit Lions. Kropp said the atmosphere at State Farm Stadium felt more like a Lions rally than a Cardinals celebration. He launched a GoFundMe page that quickly raised over $8,300, enough to purchase at least two digital billboards in the Valley.
“The fan base is upset like never before,” Kropp told AZFamily. “We want change, and we’re willing to put our money where our mouths are.”
Team performance fuels anger
The Cardinals have not won a playoff game since the 2015 season and have dropped four straight contests this year, including a 45‑21 defeat at home to Detroit. The string of losses has left many supporters questioning the direction of the franchise under the Bidwill family, who have owned the team since 1932.
Ownership history and recent criticism
Michael Bidwill inherited the franchise from his father, Bill Bidwill, who became sole owner in 1972 and remained in that role until his death in 2019. Critics argue that the family’s long tenure has led to decisions that alienate the fan base, such as the recent addition of field‑level luxury casitas that replaced the beloved “Red Sea” end‑zone section.
Two former Cardinals employees have also filed a lawsuit alleging racial discrimination, adding to the perception that the organization is out of touch with its community.
Cardinals highlight community contributions
Amid the backlash, the organization points to a robust charitable program. The Arizona Cardinals Foundation is hosting its second annual Cardinals Climb at State Farm Stadium to raise funds for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Earlier this summer, Michael Bidwill used his private plane to transport hundreds of Arizona students to Washington, D.C., as part of the 2026 Civic Matters Arizona program.
The team also pioneered a weekly girls’ high school flag football broadcast in 2024, continuing a tradition of supporting youth sports. In partnership with Arizona’s Family, the Cardinals provide preseason game coverage and weekly shows, reinforcing their commitment to local media.
What’s next for the protest?
Kropp says the campaign will continue until the ownership situation changes. “It’s just going absolutely crazy because the fans want something,” he said. “It’s hard to be a Cardinals fan right now.” The billboards remain up, and the GoFundMe page stays active, inviting more supporters to contribute.
While the franchise’s on‑field struggles persist, the fan‑driven movement underscores the deep connection between the Cardinals and the Phoenix community, reminding owners that a team’s success is measured not only in wins but also in the loyalty of its supporters.
Original reporting: azfamily KTVK/KPHO Phoenix (news) — read the source article.
