David Sullivan has stepped down as West Ham United chairman following allegations of sexually exploitative and predatory behaviour made by seven women, prompting a probe by the Independent Football Regulator (IFR). Police have urged other potential victims to come forward.
Allegations and Police Investigation
The 77-year-old billionaire resigned from his position at the east London club to contest what he described as "false allegations." On Monday, both the BBC and The Times published accounts from seven women alleging that Mr Sullivan engaged in sexually exploitative and predatory conduct, with incidents dating back to the 1980s and 1990s when he owned the tabloid newspapers Daily Sport and Sunday Sport.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed they are investigating a report concerning the "alleged taking of indecent images and sexual exploitation at locations in London and Essex in the 1980s." The investigation, led by specialist detectives from the Met's Rape and Serious Sexual Offences team, currently pertains to one alleged victim.
Scotland Yard stated: "We take all allegations of offences against women and girls extremely seriously, no matter the length of time that has passed. As with all cases, any information or evidence provided to police will be assessed and the appropriate inquiries carried out." They added: "We would encourage any victims of sexual offences to come forward and speak to us on 101, or 999 in an emergency."
Sullivan's Denial and Resignation
Over the weekend, Mr Sullivan issued a statement categorically denying all claims. He said: "The false allegations levelled against me have been sensationalised by the media. After a lifetime spent building businesses in the adult industry in which I have met thousands of women, it is sadly inevitable that a small number of improper conduct claims are being made against me. I categorically deny these claims."
He added: "After very careful consideration and with a heavy heart, I have decided to resign as joint-chair and director of West Ham United FC with immediate effect. This has been an incredibly painful decision to make, but it is one made out of love, respect, and responsibility toward a football club and a fan base that deserve absolute unity and focus moving forward."
A club statement confirmed: "West Ham United can confirm that joint-chair David Sullivan has stepped down from his position with immediate effect. Mr Sullivan has also resigned as a director of both WH Holding Limited and West Ham United Football Club, having been made aware of the impending publication of serious historic allegations." It is understood none of the allegations relate to West Ham United or any of its operations.
Regulator's Probe
The Independent Football Regulator (IFR) has launched an investigation into Mr Sullivan over the sexual abuse claims. A spokesperson said: "These are extremely serious allegations. We are in contact with West Ham on this matter and will use our statutory powers to seek urgent information from David Sullivan relating to his suitability under our owners, directors and senior executives regime. We are unable to comment further at this stage."
The IFR has statutory powers to enforce regulations about conduct and integrity to protect the reputation of the sport. This could potentially force Mr Sullivan to sell his stake in the club, according to The Sun.
Background
Mr Sullivan amassed his fortune from the pornography industry during the 1970s. In 1982, he was found guilty of living off immoral earnings and spent 71 days in prison before successfully appealing. He and business partner David Gold sealed their West Ham takeover in 2010, bringing Karren Brady along as vice-chairman. Their ownership witnessed the club's relocation from Upton Park to the former Olympic Stadium in 2016. Mr Gold passed away in 2023 at age 86, while Baroness Brady departed before the end of a campaign that resulted in Premier League relegation.
According to The Times Rich List, Mr Sullivan's wealth was valued at approximately £1.2 billion in 2024. The FA has been contacted for comment, while West Ham and Birmingham declined to comment.
