Overview
- West Ham confirmed on Saturday that David Sullivan stepped down with immediate effect as joint‑chair and resigned as a director of WH Holding Limited and West Ham United after being told of the impending publication of "serious historic allegations."
- Sullivan issued a statement through his lawyers saying the claims are "factually incorrect and entirely false," describing them as decades‑old and announcing plans to sue the BBC and any outlet that repeats the allegations.
- The club said it understands none of the allegations relate to West Ham or its operations and named interim chief executive Karim Virani as responsible for day‑to‑day leadership while the board reviews its future structure.
- Sullivan remains a major shareholder in the club (reported around 38.8%), a fact that leaves ownership questions unresolved even as he gives up his board roles to avoid disrupting the club after its recent relegation.
- The precise details of the alleged historic conduct had not been published at the time of reporting, and the situation is an unfolding legal and media matter that could shape future board governance and public coverage.