West Ham United co-owner, David Sullivan, has immediately stepped down as joint chairman of the club, bringing an end to his 16-year leadership role.
The club said it had “been made aware of the impending publication of serious historic allegations” relating to Sullivan.
In his own statement, the 77-year-old confirmed that “a small number of improper conduct claims” have been made against him, while strongly denying any wrongdoing.
“I categorically deny these claims,” he said, adding that the “decades-old allegations concerning my personal life” were “factually incorrect and entirely false”.
Sullivan explained that his decision to step aside was aimed at allowing him to focus fully on addressing the allegations.
He also revealed plans to pursue legal action against media organisations, stating he intends to sue the BBC for libel “along with any other media outlet that repeats any libellous allegations”.
The long-serving co-owner said he was stepping down during a difficult period for the club, which was recently relegated from the Premier League after finishing 18th in the 2025-26 season.
“At what is already a challenging and important time for the club, I refuse to allow personal matters concerning me to become an unnecessary distraction or a source of instability,” he said, adding, “Therefore, after very careful consideration and with a heavy heart, I have decided to resign.”
West Ham confirmed in its statement that Sullivan denies any “illegal conduct” and is leaving to prevent disruption while he handles the matter privately.
He had been the club’s largest single shareholder since the death of David Gold in January 2023, which left him with a 38.8% stake. The pair had jointly led the club since completing their takeover in 2010.
“It is understood none of the allegations relate to West Ham United or any of its operations,” the club added.
Interim chief executive officer Karim Virani will continue to oversee day-to-day operations, reporting to the current board, while discussions over a revised board structure will follow.
Sullivan and Gold previously co-owned Birmingham City between 1993 and 2009 before moving into West Ham.
During their tenure, they oversaw the club’s relocation from Upton Park to the London Stadium in 2016 and celebrated their first major trophy in 43 years with the 2023 UEFA Conference League triumph.
West Ham’s best Premier League finish under their leadership came in 2021 when they placed sixth, though recent seasons have seen a decline, with three bottom-half finishes in four years and relegation confirmed last month.
Fan protests calling for Sullivan and Baroness Karren Brady to step down have been held throughout the 2025-26 campaign. Brady had already resigned as vice-chair on 15 April.
