IFR seeks information on West Ham co-chair David Sullivan

The Independent Football Regulator (IFR) is in contact with West Ham United and has requested urgent information from co-chair David Sullivan regarding his suitability under the owners, directors and senior executives test. Sullivan stepped down as co-chair on 7 June, citing a need to focus on defending himself against allegations from BBC Panorama and the Times. He denies claims of abusing power and preying on women, including when some were in their late teens. West Ham stated it has robust safeguarding measures in place and cannot comment on individual safeguarding matters. The club was the first Premier League team accredited by White Ribbon UK for efforts against male violence, though the charity clarified its accreditation does not endorse individuals connected to the organisation. The UK’s Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport called the allegations against Sullivan "deeply concerning" and urged relevant authorities to investigate. Sullivan remains West Ham’s largest shareholder with a 38.8% stake despite his resignation. His sons, Jack and David Jr, will not take on hands-on roles at the club. Czech businessman Daniel Kretinsky and Vanessa Gold, daughter of the late David Gold, hold 27% and 25.1% shares respectively. West Ham announced it would provide an update on the future board structure in due course. Sullivan has historically been deeply involved in player transfers and club operations, with critics citing underachievement and the controversial 2016 move to London Stadium as reasons for protests. The club’s relegation to the Championship after 14 years in the Premier League intensified criticism of the ownership. Sullivan, Gold, and vice-chair Karren Brady faced sustained fan backlash, with Brady resigning in April after 30 years at the club. Executive director Tara Warren left in December after 17 years, later joining the IFR. Nathan Thompson, credited with driving commercial growth, departed in April after nine and a half years. Head of recruitment Kyle Macaulay left in October following manager Graham Potter’s dismissal, and Max Hahn exited as head of technical recruitment and analysis after the season ended. Despite leadership upheaval, Sullivan remained central to transfer dealings as recently as 3 June. He had publicly commented on the futures of players Mateus Fernandes and Jarrod Bowen ahead of a critical summer transfer window.