West Ham co-owner David Sullivan steps down over historic allegations
7 verified5 unconfirmed
David Sullivan has stepped down as joint chairman and director of West Ham United with immediate effect, both the club and his legal representatives confirmed. Sullivan stated he became aware of impending publication of allegations concerning his personal life and decided to resign to avoid disruption to the club. He has denied any illegal conduct or false claims, describing the allegations as decades-old and factually incorrect. Sullivan said he is stepping down to focus his full energy on fighting the allegations and has engaged a legal team. West Ham said the allegations do not relate to the club or its operations. Sullivan has been the club’s largest single shareholder since the death of his business partner David Gold in January 2023, and he and Gold completed their takeover of West Ham in January 2010.
What’s verified
David Sullivan has resigned as joint chairman and director of West Ham United with immediate effect.
Sullivan stated he was made aware of historic allegations about his personal life that were due to be published.
Sullivan denies any illegal conduct and describes the allegations as false and factually incorrect.
Both Sullivan and West Ham have said the allegations do not relate to the football club or its operations.
Sullivan has been the club’s largest single shareholder since the death of David Gold in January 2023.
Sullivan and David Gold became joint chairmen when they completed their takeover of West Ham in January 2010.
Sullivan said he is stepping down to avoid disruption to the club while he addresses the matter.
Not yet confirmed
One source reported that the allegations are “serious historic allegations” and that Sullivan was made aware of their impending publication by the club.
One source reported that Sullivan intends to sue the BBC for libel and any other outlet that repeats what he calls libellous allegations.
One source reported that Sullivan holds a 38.8% stake in West Ham.
One source reported that West Ham were relegated from the Premier League on the final day of the 2025-26 season.
The precise nature and number of the allegations have not been detailed in either source.
Key figures
David Sullivan – former joint chairman and director of West Ham United; David Gold – late business partner and former joint chairman; Karim Virani – interim chief executive officer of West Ham United.
Sources: BBC News, The Guardian
