Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky is set to become the largest shareholder at West Ham United, with co-owner David Sullivan also increasing his stake in the club. This development is expected to deal a significant blow to Amanda Staveley, who had reportedly reached an initial agreement to acquire the Gold family’s 25.1 percent stake in the club.
Kretinsky, who owns the Royal Mail, is understood to have exercised pre-emption rights, meaning he and other existing shareholders will now divide the Gold family's holding. As a result, Kretinsky's stake is anticipated to rise from 27 percent to 46 percent. Sullivan, who stepped down as joint-chairman in June, plans to increase his holding from 38.8 percent to 40 percent. American investor Tripp Smith is also expected to expand his share from 8 percent to 11 percent, with other remaining shareholders increasing their combined stake from 1.1 percent to 3 percent.
Sullivan, 77, has categorically denied allegations of sexual misconduct and abusing his power. He is currently prohibited from having one-to-one contact or direct access to the West Ham women's and youth teams following a historical complaint made to the Football Association. The Independent Football Regulator has stated it will seek urgent information from Sullivan regarding these allegations, and Essex Police have also been contacted.
Staveley had previously offered £150 million for the Gold family's stake, a move that was interpreted by some as a preliminary step towards a complete takeover of the club. West Ham United has been contacted for comment.