Ex-chairman David Sullivan increases stake in West Ham amid sexual misconduct allegations

David Sullivan, the former co-chairman of West Ham United, has raised his stake in the club to 40% despite facing allegations of historical sexual misconduct from seven women. The share increase, from 38.8% to 40%, came in early September 2026, roughly three months after Sullivan stepped down as co-chairman and director. Sullivan has denied the accusations, calling them “factually incorrect and entirely false.” The allegations describe predatory behavior dating back to the 1980s and 1990s. A shifting ownership map at a relegated club West Ham was relegated from the Premier League during the 2025-26 season. Sullivan acquired the additional shares from Vanessa Gold, part of the Gold family whose collective stake has shrunk from approximately 25% to around 9% through recent transactions. Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky’s ownership jumped from 27% to 46%, making him West Ham’s largest individual shareholder. The ownership table now stands with Kretinsky at 46%, Sullivan at 40%, and the Gold family at roughly 9%. The regulator is watching The Independent Football Regulator is currently reviewing Sullivan’s suitability as an owner in light of the misconduct allegations. Sullivan resig...