London Stadium's ban on West Ham co-owner sparks ownership turmoil

London Stadium has instructed West Ham United co‑owner David Sullivan to stay away from home fixtures after a joint BBC Panorama and The Times investigation alleged historic sexual misconduct involving seven women, prompting the venue to ban his attendance at matches.

The 77‑year‑old businessman is accused of sexually exploitative and predatory behaviour, with the investigation identifying seven women who described his conduct in those terms. The PA news agency also relayed the details of the women’s accusations.

Sullivan categorically denied the claims, calling them “factually incorrect and entirely false, decades‑old allegations concerning my personal life”. He maintained the allegations are untrue.

A spokesperson for the London Stadium said the venue recommended that Sullivan not attend home matches because of the potential for demonstrations and anti‑social behaviour by some spectators. The club confirmed the matter was investigated and there was no ongoing safeguarding risk.

Amanda Staveley faces £150m West Ham hurdle as EFL drama unfolds

The Football Association banned Sullivan from any contact with West Ham’s women and youth teams for three years over safeguarding concerns. Sullivan called the restriction a “negotiated agreement” he accepted to avoid disruption, insisting he never met academy or women’s players one‑to‑one in his 16 years at the club.

Sullivan stepped down as joint chairman of West Ham shortly before the Panorama broadcast but remains the club’s largest shareholder. His departure came amid the unfolding allegations.

Meanwhile, a consortium led by Amanda Staveley agreed to purchase a 25.1 per cent stake from Vanessa Gold for £150 million, signalling a shift in the Hammers’ ownership structure. The deal alters the composition of West Ham’s shareholders.

David Sullivan set to defy London Stadium ban amid fan unrest

West Ham were relegated from the Premier League in May and are now pre‑season favourites in the Championship, aiming to return at the first time of asking. Their 2026‑27 campaign opens with a home Carabao Cup tie against Portsmouth on Saturday.

West Ham have declined to comment officially, and reports suggest Sullivan intends to defy the stadium’s recommendation and attend matches, leaving the situation unresolved. The club’s silence adds further uncertainty to the enforcement of the ban.