London Stadium, owners of West Ham United’s home ground, said it had never been briefed on safeguarding limits imposed on co‑owner David Sullivan after the BBC Panorama and Times exposés. The club’s board stepped down last month, and the FA opened a probe in 2023 over allegations tied to Sullivan’s past. London Stadium demanded clarity on the risk‑assessment process.

Safeguarding bodies, the club, the FA and the local authority agreed to bar Sullivan from any 1‑2‑1 meetings with academy or women’s players. Sullivan denied the claims, insisting the restriction was a “meaningless” precaution that did not affect his duties. The Women’s Super League and West Ham’s women’s squad were unaware of any such ban today.

London Stadium has formally requested the club, the FA and the local authority explain why the information was withheld. The club said only parties directly involved in safeguarding were notified, citing “best practice” and the need to keep the circle small. The inquiry highlights gaps in communication between club owners and stadium operators today.

With Sullivan’s exit and the FA’s safeguarding framework under scrutiny, West Ham faces a reckoning on governance and trust. The club must rebuild confidence among players, staff and fans, while the FA tightens protocols to prevent future oversights. London Stadium’s demand for transparency signals a shift toward stricter oversight of club ownership today.