Football regulator contacts West Ham over David Sullivan abuse claims
The Independent Football Regulator has contacted West Ham United to seek urgent information regarding co-owner David Sullivan following historical allegations of sexual exploitation.
The watchdog described the claims against the 77-year-old as “extremely serious” and will use statutory powers to assess his suitability for a senior executive role.
Seven women have accused the billionaire of predatory behaviour dating back to the 1980s and 1990s during his ownership of the Daily Sport and Sunday Sport newspapers.
We are in contact with West Ham on this matter and will use our statutory powers to seek urgent information from David Sullivan relating to his suitability under our Owners, Directors and Senior Executives regime.
Sullivan steps down as chairman
Over the weekend, the long-time football executive stepped down from his position as chairman of the east London club to actively contest the accusations.
He released a statement categorically denying the claims, which reportedly involve pressuring young models to engage in sexual acts.
After a lifetime spent building businesses in the adult industry, in which I have met thousands of women, it is sadly inevitable that a small number of improper conduct claims are being made against me.
Government and police involvement
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport echoed the regulator’s stringent stance, labelling the unfolding situation as “deeply concerning”.
A government spokesperson confirmed that the allegations must be treated with the utmost seriousness and robustly investigated by the relevant authorities.
Meanwhile, the Metropolitan Police are actively investigating a report relating to the alleged taking of indecent images and sexual exploitation at locations in London and Essex.
Specialist detectives from the Met’s Rape and Serious Sexual Offences team are currently leading the inquiry into the 1980s incidents concerning one alleged victim.
Background in the adult industry
The prominent businessman made his vast fortune through the pornography industry throughout the 1970s before eventually moving into top-flight sports ownership.
In 1982, he was convicted of living off immoral earnings and served 71 days in prison before successfully appealing the verdict.
These severe off-field controversies now add significant instability at the London Stadium as the Premier League club navigates the remainder of their current campaign.