David Sullivan has stepped down as West Ham United co-chairman with immediate effect amid serious historic allegations. Sullivan, who became the club's largest shareholder after David Gold's death in January 2023, denied any illegal conduct. The Hammers confirmed he is leaving to avoid disruption while he addresses the matter privately. Sullivan and Gold completed their takeover in January 2010, transforming the club's direction over more than a decade.

West Ham emphasized that none of the allegations relate to the club or its operations. Interim chief executive Karim Virani will continue leading day-to-day operations while reporting to the current board. The club announced it will provide an update on the board structure in due course but made no further comment regarding the allegations against Sullivan, leaving many questions unanswered.

The leadership change comes as a difficult period for West Ham, who were relegated from the Premier League at the end of the 2025-26 season after finishing 18th. Sullivan's departure leaves the club without its longest-serving chairman since the 2010 takeover. The board now faces the challenge of maintaining stability during this uncertain period for the recently relegated club.