Daniel Kretinsky acquires 43% stake to become West Ham majority owner
Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky has agreed a deal to purchase the Gold family’s shares and become the majority shareholder of West Ham United with an approximate 43% stake.
The major boardroom restructuring follows the sudden resignation of former joint-chair David Sullivan last week.
Sullivan stepped down from his roles as a director of WH Holding Limited and the club after being made aware of impending publications detailing serious historic allegations.
Focus shifts to stability and promotion
A joint statement issued by Vanessa Gold and Kretinsky outlined the immediate next steps for the East London club.
The 1890 Holdings group confirmed their primary objective is to stabilise the Hammers and provide vital additional financing.
They also reaffirmed their commitment to manager Nuno Espirito Santo as the team targets an immediate return to the Premier League.
Board reacts to historic allegations
The forthcoming share purchase transaction is expected to be finalised within the next couple of weeks.
Both parties have agreed to vote jointly on key matters to support the broader strategic vision for the football club.
Addressing the recent controversies surrounding Sullivan, the statement expressed deep concern over the revelations published by The Times and Panorama.
“Our thoughts go out to those women who have fought so hard to make their voices heard.” Vanessa Gold and Daniel Kretinsky
“Any abuse of power is abhorrent, and it takes great courage and determination to speak up against it.”
Safeguarding measures and future steps
The wider board revealed they were not notified about the allegations against the former joint-chair until approximately a month ago.
Full details of the claims, which Sullivan strenuously denies, only became apparent to shareholders when they were made public on Monday.
As the new largest shareholder, the broader EP group intends to engage directly with fans and business partners to build a stronger future.
