West Ham co-owner David Sullivan plans to attend the club's first home game of the season, despite advice from the London Stadium operators and the club's fan advisory board to stay away. Sullivan, 77, is accused of multiple counts of sexual misconduct, which he denies.
The London Stadium operators recommended that Sullivan not attend the match against Portsmouth on Saturday due to concerns about potential fan unrest. The club's fan advisory board stated his presence would cause "offence and upset."
Sullivan resigned as co-chair in June, ahead of a BBC Panorama and Times investigation detailing allegations from seven women. These accounts describe predatory behavior, including pressure for sexual favors in exchange for career advancement, dating back to the 1980s. Sullivan has described the allegations as "factually incorrect and entirely false."
Sources close to Sullivan indicate he feels he is being "bullied" by "keyboard warriors" into missing the game. They also expressed concern over the team's performance and transfer activity as West Ham enters its first season in the Championship in 14 years, suggesting Sullivan feels a need to attend the match in person. Supporters have also urged him to attend, despite his presence at matches last season prompting continued protests, including marches, boycotts, and displays of red cards.
The Panorama investigation also revealed that Sullivan has been banned from contact with West Ham women's and youth teams for the past three years. The stadium operator has requested to be informed of any planned visits by Sullivan to implement safety measures. West Ham has reportedly informed the operator that they do not consider there to be an ongoing safeguarding risk associated with Sullivan's attendance.
Recent developments regarding club ownership have seen a consortium led by former Newcastle co-owner Amanda Staveley agree to buy a 25.1 percent stake. This move would still leave Sullivan as the leading stakeholder. Staveley has reportedly also made an offer to Sullivan, who is believed to be open to selling his stake but values it higher.