Skip to main content

3 winners (and 3 sore losers) of David Sullivan's downfall

There are big winners and losers of David Sullivan's resignation and the allegations against him.
FBL-ENG-PR-WEST HAM-LEEDS
FBL-ENG-PR-WEST HAM-LEEDS | HENRY NICHOLLS/GettyImages

David Sullivan resigned as West Ham United's chairman on Saturday, and the BBC Panorama documentary with serious allegations against the businessman aired last night. This has led to shockwaves throughout the club, and there will inevitably be winners and losers.

3 winners of David Sullivan's downfall

West Ham fans

Sullivan was hugely unpopular as West Ham's chairman. Fans will never forgive him, Karen Brady, and the late David Gold for the move to the London Stadium. The club lost its soul when it left Upton Park, changed the badge, and moved to a ground where it is almost impossible to generate an atmosphere.

Supporters were promised that the move would improve West Ham's fortunes. However, the club has now just been relegated to the Championship. There were numerous protests against the old regime, and Hammers fans can now celebrate that the Sullivan era is over.

Daniel Křetínský

Daniel Křetínský became a major stakeholder of West Ham in 2021 and owns 27% of the shares. Sullivan still has 38.8%. However, Křetínský now has the opportunity to grow his influence at the club further and become the majority owner.

The BBC and The Times

The joint investigation by the BBC and The Times has made the front and back pages of almost all major newspapers in the United Kingdom. It has been a real coup that has got people talking. They have exposed Sullivan, and hopefully, the victims will gain justice.

3 sore losers of David Sullivan's downfall

David Sullivan

His reputation is in tatters, and he has lost control of West Ham. It remains to be seen what more repercussions are on their way for Sullivan.

Jack and David Jr.

Sullivan would have hoped that his sons could one day take over from him. They had both been on the board of directors, and Jack had been managing director of West Ham Women. They will not play a role in the new structure of the club.

Karim Virani

The interim chief executive officer faces a challenging summer. He will need to manage a potential ownership change. West Ham face a crucial summer with player sales and recruitment as they prepare for a season in the Championship.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Loading recommendations... Please wait while we load personalized content recommendations