Former West Ham United co-chair David Sullivan was present at the team’s Carabao Cup match against Portsmouth, disregarding a recommendation that he avoid home games at London Stadium. Sullivan stepped down from his executive role in June after facing allegations of predatory and sexually exploitative behavior, all of which he has strictly denied.
This game marked the club’s first appearance in the opening round of the EFL Cup in 15 years, following their recent relegation from the Premier League. The match took place following a collaborative investigation by BBC Panorama and The Times, which disclosed that Sullivan has been barred from interacting with the club’s youth and women’s squads for three years due to safeguarding issues.
Although Sullivan is no longer co-chair, he maintains a 38.8% ownership stake, making him the club’s primary shareholder. A spokesperson for London Stadium had suggested to the club that Sullivan stay away to prevent potential fan disturbances, yet there were no reported incidents during the early stages of the event.
