Cardinals fans fume after cheerleaders booted from sideline: ‘Bring them back!’

Fans of one NFL team are in uproar after the cheerleading squad was given four-days notice before being booted from the sidelines.

There were fireworks in Arizona on Monday night, but it had nothing to do with the Cardinals’ 17-15 win over the Chargers at State Farm Stadium.

Fans of the NFC West franchise expressed shock and disappointment over the apparent removal of the Arizona Cardinals Cheerleaders from the sidelines during the team’s Week 7 win, with loved ones of the pom squad declaring this week the group had to watch the prime-time clash from the locker room.

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The Cardinals told The Post in a statement Thursday the move stemmed from new premier seating and volume concerning foot traffic.

“With the introduction of new field-level seating products this season, measures have been taken throughout the year to reduce sideline congestion and enhance safety by moving some personnel to other areas. This has included certain aspects of our game entertainment group — like the cheerleaders and flag runners — only being on the field when performing,” the statement read.

“We will continue to evaluate these areas throughout the season to provide the cleanest and safest environment for everyone.”

Arizona Cardinals cheerleaders perform during the NFL game at State Farm Stadium on September 15, 2024 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

The Arizona Cardinals cheerleaders perform during the second half of the NFL game against the Los Angeles Chargers at State Farm Stadium. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

The cheerleaders were apparently “given a four-day notice” about the game-day move, local news reported, with alums of the squad stunned by the decision.

“We put a lot of hours in. I’m very surprised,” former Cardinals cheerleader Kim Denson told Fox 10 Phoenix while fellow alum Davis Berryhill said, “When I was on the team, seeing all the little girls in the stands was my favourite thing ever.

“For them to see a woman can be in professional sports. A woman can be in the NFL. I think having that representation of women is really important.”

Fans have since flooded the Instagram page of the Arizona Cardinals Cheerleaders, voicing their support for the squad in the comments of posts.

The Arizona Cardinals cheerleaders were given four-days notice before being removed from the sidelines. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Arizona Cardinals cheerleaders perform during the NFL game at State Farm Stadium on September 29, 2024 in Glendale, Arizona. The Commanders defeated the Cardinals 42-14. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

“It’s honestly really disappointing to see the Cardinals Cheerleaders removed from the sidelines. These women work incredibly hard, and their energy adds so much to the game day atmosphere,” one social media user wrote, concluding the message with, “Bring them back!”

Another added the hashtag, “Keep AZCC on the field,” to their message.

“They deserve to be out there during the WHOLE game! #KeepAZCConthefield,” the fan posted.

“Devastated to hear that you were taken off the sidelines - it’s so clear from this comment section that your squad is so so loved and your energy was missed during the game. You deserve your spot on the field and we will fight for you!!!” a separate fan posted.

The Cardinals (3-4) return to action Sunday when they visit the Dolphins (2-4) in what could be Miami quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s return from a concussion.

- This article originally appeared in the New York Post and was republished with permission

Originally published as Cardinals fans fume after cheerleaders booted from sideline: ‘Bring them back!’