Baroness Karren Brady remained on West Ham United’s board after learning that co‑owner David Sullivan was barred from contacting the club’s women’s and youth teams over safeguarding concerns. The former Birmingham City managing director, a long‑time vice‑chair, said she stayed because she trusted the presumption of innocence and faced public criticism given her outspoken support for women’s rights.

Legal counsel told the BBC David Sullivan was known to have restrictions after the Football Association raised concerns in July 2023 following a historic complaint dating to the 1980s. They insisted she had no knowledge of the specific allegations and was not involved in the decision to restrict Sullivan’s access. Brady’s role, they said, was to safeguard the club’s procedures and maintain confidentiality clearly.

Brady stepped down abruptly in April, five games before the season’s end, citing a privilege to work with the board, staff and supporters. Her departure ends a four‑decade partnership that began at Sullivan’s Sport newspapers and included negotiating West Ham’s move to the Olympic Stadium. The episode significantly underscores the tension between high‑profile advocacy and corporate loyalty in modern football.