David Sullivan resigned as co-chair of West Ham United on June 7, 2026, to concentrate on responding to allegations of sexual abuse dating back to the 1980s and 1990s [1]. Seven women have accused Sullivan, who is 77 years old, of abusing his power and preying on them, some while they were in their late teens, during his ownership of British tabloids Daily Sport and Sunday Sport in that period [1, 2]. The Metropolitan Police are investigating allegations related to one victim involving indecent images and sexual exploitation in London and Essex in the 1980s, with specialist detectives leading the inquiry [2].
Sullivan strongly denies all claims. He described the allegations as "factually incorrect and entirely false, decades-old allegations concerning my personal life" and said "the false allegations levelled against me have been sensationalised by the media" [1, 2]. Despite stepping down as co-chair, Sullivan remains West Ham's largest shareholder with a 38.8% stake, ahead of Daniel Kretinsky's 27% and Vanessa Gold's 25.1% shares [1]. Sullivan and David Gold had bought into West Ham in January 2010, with Sullivan describing the club then as in a "serious mess" [1].
West Ham United confirmed it has robust safeguarding measures but declined to comment on individual cases [1]. The club was the first Premier League side accredited by White Ribbon UK, a charity aimed at ending male violence against women and girls [1]. The UK Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport called the allegations "deeply concerning" and demanded a thorough investigation. A spokesman said, "These deeply concerning allegations must be treated with the utmost seriousness and be investigated by the relevant authorities, with victims given the support they need" [2]. The London Metropolitan Police stated, "We take all allegations of offences against women and girls extremely seriously, no matter the length of time that has passed" [2].
Sources said Sullivan’s sons will not take on hands-on roles at West Ham amid the ongoing situation [1]. The next significant development will likely come from the police investigation and any legal proceedings that follow.
