Kretinsky’s deal crowns West Ham’s shareholder, sidelining Staveley

Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky is poised to become West Ham United’s largest shareholder after reaching an agreement with David Sullivan, dealing a blow to Amanda Staveley’s plan to acquire the club’s 25.1 per cent stake. Staveley had attended the London Stadium for the Hammers’ 4‑2 victory over Wolves earlier this week.

Stake increases reshape ownership

Kretinsky, who owns the Royal Mail group, will lift his holding from 27 per cent to 46 per cent by exercising pre‑emption rights, splitting the Gold family’s 25.1 per cent block and leaving Staveley without a share.

David Sullivan, who stepped down as joint‑chairman in June, will raise his stake from 38.8 per cent to 40 per cent. The 77‑year‑old categorically denies the sexual‑misconduct allegations that have seen him barred from one‑to‑one contact with the Hammers’ women’s and youth teams.

American investor Tripp Smith is set to increase his holding from 8 per cent to 11 per cent, while the remaining shareholders will collectively rise from 1.1 per cent to 3 per cent, further consolidating the ownership structure.

Staveley’s bid and the Gold stake

Staveley, a British businesswoman who previously served as a director at Newcastle United, had offered £150 million for the Gold stake, a move many saw as the first step towards a full takeover of the east‑London club.

Vanessa Gold’s 25.1 per cent stake, secured in July after a deal with the Gold family, was the asset Staveley aimed to purchase. Gold, also British, fronted a consortium seeking board representation at West Ham.

The combined effect of Kretinsky’s and Sullivan’s increased holdings makes Kretinsky the club’s biggest shareholder, effectively sidelining Staveley’s ambitions and reshaping the future ownership of the Championship side.