Daniel Kretinsky’s plan for West Ham as David Sullivan steps down as co-chairman
West Ham are facing the most significant boardroom shake-up in their recent history after the club confirmed that David Sullivan has stepped down as joint chairman.
The announcement came amid what the Hammers described as a yet-to-be-published series of historic allegations against Sullivan.
The club have insisted that the allegations have nothing to do with West Ham or its operations, while Sullivan has strongly denied any wrongdoing and says he intends to contest the claims through legal channels.
Interim CEO Karim Virani will continue to oversee the day-to-day operations of the group and report to the board.
Sullivan’s departure marks the end of a highly controversial era at the London Stadium.
After helping to take over West Ham and the late David Gold in 2010, Sullivan oversaw some of the most impactful moments in the club’s modern history – the good and the bad.
Nuno has been snapped up by the West Ham youngster as Sullivan puts a £20m price tag on him
The Hammers are set to receive an offer.
During his tenure, the Hammers moved from Upton Park to the London Stadium, qualified for the European Championship multiple times and lifted the UEFA Europa Conference League trophy in 2023.
At the same time, his leadership often divides opinions among followers.
Many fans have criticized the transfer decisions, recruitment strategy and move away from the club’s historic home, while protests against ownership have become common during difficult times.
Even before this week’s developments, West Ham’s boardroom had already undergone major changes following the departure of vice-chairman Karren Brady earlier this year.
Attention now turns to what’s next.
Daniel Kretinsky ‘ready to take over at West Ham’ after Sullivan’s exit
According to journalist Graeme Bailey, shareholder Daniel Křetínský is preparing to take a leadership role at the club following Sullivan’s exit.
Kretinsky has steadily increased his influence at West Ham since signing for a relatively small fee in 2021.
The Czech billionaire has long been seen as a possible future manager at the club, and reports throughout 2026 have suggested his role behind the scenes is very important.
Bailey’s latest update suggests that those expectations may soon become reality.
The 50-year-old businessman has played a key role in a number of major decisions at board level in recent months, reportedly including talks over the future of manager Nuno Espírito Santo following West Ham’s relegation from the Premier League.
Reports have previously suggested that Kretinsky was instrumental in the decision to trust the Portuguese coach as the team prepares for life in the Championship.
That continuity may seem important.
West Ham face an important summer on and off the pitch.
The club is trying to rebuild following relegation, and many old players continue to attract transfer interest.
Reports in recent weeks have linked Jarrod Bowen, Crysencio Summerville and Mateus Fernandes with possible moves as the club look to restructure their squad and finances.
More players could leave the club, with West Ham looking to get advice as French clubs are interested in promising youngster Mohamadou Kante.
Against this background, stability on the board will be considered important.
Kretinsky has spoken of his long-term commitment to West Ham and is gradually increasing his presence within the club’s decision-making structure.
While no formal announcement about a new chairman has been made, Bailey’s report suggests that preparations have begun for a significant transfer of power.
For West Ham fans, the coming weeks could bring a big change.
