David Sullivan is reportedly set to attend West Ham United’s opening home match of the season despite being advised to stay away from the London Stadium.
The former joint-chairman is expected to be present when Nuno Espírito Santo’s side face Portsmouth in the Carabao Cup on Saturday.
According to The Times, the London Stadium operator had recommended that Sullivan not attend home fixtures following an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct against him.
Sullivan denies the allegations.
The latest report says the 77-year-old nevertheless intends to attend West Ham’s first home game of the 2026/27 campaign.
David Sullivan decision comes after West Ham resignation
Sullivan stepped down as West Ham’s joint-chairman and a director in June after becoming aware that allegations concerning his private life were due to be published.
In a statement at the time, Sullivan categorically denied wrongdoing and said he intended to challenge the claims legally.
ReadWestHam covered Sullivan’s resignation and response in June, when he said his decision to leave his club positions was intended to prevent the situation becoming a distraction.
He remains West Ham’s largest individual shareholder despite giving up his boardroom positions.
The Times reports that Sullivan’s potential attendance has created concerns over possible supporter reaction and the additional security measures that could be required at the London Stadium.
There is no suggestion that a formal supporter protest has been organised for Saturday.
For West Ham, the timing comes just as attention was beginning to turn towards football.
The Portsmouth tie is Nuno’s first competitive game of the new campaign and arrives eight days before the Championship opener away at Burnley.
Sullivan’s reported decision now creates another significant off-field storyline around the club as the new season begins.
