David Sullivan has stepped down as chairman of West Ham United with immediate effect, citing the need to defend himself against what he describes as false allegations regarding his private life. The 77-year-old former Birmingham City chairman leaves his role after 16 years at the helm.
In a statement, Sullivan said: 'After very careful consideration and with a heavy heart, I have decided to resign as joint-chair and director of West Ham United FC with immediate effect. This has been an incredibly painful decision to make, but it is one made out of love, respect, and responsibility toward a football club and a fan base that deserve absolute unity and focus moving forward.'
Club Response and Interim Leadership
West Ham confirmed that interim chief executive officer Karim Virani, reporting to the current board, will continue overseeing day-to-day operations. A club statement read: 'West Ham United can confirm that joint-chair David Sullivan has stepped down from his position with immediate effect. Mr Sullivan has also resigned as a director of both WH Holding Limited and West Ham United Football Club, having been made aware of the impending publication of serious historic allegations.'
The club emphasised that none of the allegations relate to West Ham United or its operations.
Joint Investigation by BBC Panorama and The Times
A BBC spokesperson confirmed that 'BBC Panorama and The Times newspaper have been working together on a joint investigation into the behaviour of David Sullivan', scheduled for broadcast and publication on Monday.
Sullivan's Tenure and Legacy
Sullivan, along with business partner David Gold, completed their takeover of West Ham after selling Birmingham City, bringing Karren Brady as vice-chairman. Their tenure included the controversial move from Upton Park to the London Stadium in 2016, which sparked numerous anti-board protests. Gold passed away in 2023 aged 86, and Baroness Brady left her role before the club's relegation from the Premier League after a challenging season.
Sullivan added: 'None of these allegations relate to my more than 30 years in football. West Ham United has been one of the greatest passions and privileges of my life. I care deeply about the club, its supporters, its players, its staff, and its future. At what is already a challenging and important time for the club, I refuse to allow personal matters concerning me to become an unnecessary distraction or a source of instability.'
West Ham stated they will provide an update on the future board structure in due course but will make no further comment at this time. Czech businessman Daniel Kretinsky, who bought a 27 per cent stake in the club in 2021, is reportedly set to increase his holding.
