West Ham United announced a major change in the club’s hierarchy, with David Sullivan stepping down as joint-chairman and director effective immediately.
Sullivan has also resigned as a director of both WH Holding Limited and West Ham United Football Club, after being informed of the probable revelation of significant historical claims. It is thought that none of the claims concerns the operations of West Ham.
The news closes a significant period in the Hammers’ modern history, as Sullivan has been a divisive character at the London Stadium club since he and the late David Gold took ownership in 2010, which saw West Ham win a long-awaited major honour in 2023 but also suffer relegation to the Championship at the end of this current campaign.
Sullivan’s resignation comes only weeks after Baroness Karren Brady resigned as vice-chairman, leaving the boardroom with two of the most prominent figures of the club’s ownership tenure within months of each other. The former shared a leadership role with Daniel Křetínský, who remains at the club.
In a statement released via the club’s website, West Ham confirmed Sullivan’s leave.
“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. It is understood none of the allegations relate to West Ham United or any of its operations.
“Through his own legal representatives Mr Sullivan denies any illegal conduct and has taken the decision to step down in order to avoid disruption to the Club while he addresses the matter privately.
“Interim Chief Executive Officer Karim Virani, reporting into the current Board of Directors, will continue to be responsible for leading the Club’s day-to-day operations. The Club will provide an update on the future structure of the Board of Directors in due course, but will make no further comment at this time.”
