West Ham United co-chair David Sullivan has resigned from his role with immediate effect after learning that allegations concerning his personal life are set to be published and broadcast
in the coming days.
The 77-year-old businessman also stepped down as a director of WH Holding Limited and West Ham United, a move announced on Saturday amid growing media scrutiny. His departure comes shortly after the club's relegation from the Premier League on the final day of the season.
In a lengthy statement, Sullivan said he had become aware of what he described as “factually incorrect and entirely false” allegations dating back several decades. He strongly denied all claims and accused the media of sensationalising the matter.
“The false allegations levelled against me have been sensationalised by the media,” Sullivan said. “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.”
The BBC confirmed that its investigative programme Panorama has collaborated with The Times newspaper on a joint investigation into Sullivan's conduct. According to a BBC spokesperson, the investigation, which examines Sullivan's business activities and personal behaviour over several decades, is scheduled for publication and broadcast on Monday.
In response, Sullivan said he intends to pursue legal action against the BBC and any other media organisations that repeat what he described as defamatory allegations.
West Ham United stressed that the allegations are unrelated to the football club or its operations. The club said Interim Chief Executive Officer Karim Virani will continue overseeing day-to-day management while the board considers its future structure.
“None of these allegations relate to my more than 30 years in football,” Sullivan said. “West Ham United has been one of the greatest passions and privileges of my life.”
Describing his resignation as “incredibly painful,” Sullivan said he chose to step aside to prevent personal matters from becoming a distraction during a challenging period for the club.
“I care deeply about the club, its supporters, its players, its staff and its future,” he said. “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.”
West Ham will compete in the Championship next season for the first time since the 2011–12 campaign following their relegation from England's top flight.
Sullivan said he would now focus his efforts on contesting the allegations through legal channels.
“I am stepping down to apply my full energy and attention to fighting these false allegations,” he said. “I have officially engaged my legal team and we are preparing to issue legal proceedings in respect of each and every false complaint that has been made against me. I will be seeking full redress, legally and publicly, on every single front.” Photo by Jarrett Campbell, Wikimedia commons.
