David Sullivan agrees temporary FA restriction on WHU youth and women's teams

David Sullivan agreed to a temporary restriction with the Football Association (FA) not to meet academy or women’s team players alone while an historic complaint is resolved. The former joint chair, who resigned last week, called the agreement a “negotiated” measure and denied the 1981 incident ever took place. The FA opened a safeguarding investigation in 2023 after receiving allegations about Sullivan’s conduct. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy demanded an explanation from the FA and West Ham United over the handling of the case. Seven women told BBC and The Times they experienced sexually exploitative behaviour by Sullivan in the 1980s and 1990s when he owned the Daily Sport and Sunday Sport. Sullivan described the claims as “entirely false” and said he “categorically denies” them. Sullivan told The Independent the restriction was temporary and did not affect his work at West Ham United. He said he had never met academy or women’s team players one-on-one during his 16 years at the club. The FA stated it takes all safeguarding allegations seriously and follows rigorous policies. A spokesperson said appropriate action is taken against individuals posing risks to children or adults in football. West Ham United confirmed it has robust safeguarding measures independently assessed annually. The club declined to comment on individual cases to comply with safeguarding best practice. Sullivan announced his resignation as chair last weekend, citing media sensationalism of false allegations. He denied improper conduct despite decades in the adult industry. Nandy said in a statement that if the FA concluded serious allegations warranted a contact ban, it must explain the decision and lack of further action. The FA reiterated its safeguarding programme covers all levels of English football and all referrals are handled under stringent policies.