The West Ham United Fan Advisory Board (FAB) has publicly requested that David Sullivan refrain from attending any of the club’s home fixtures, arguing that his presence could act as a distraction and raise security concerns. In a formal statement, the FAB expressed ongoing apprehension that Sullivan’s attendance at the London Stadium might cause offence and upset among certain sections of the fan base, potentially provoking hostile reactions.
Sullivan stepped down from his role as a director and joint chairman of West Ham in June, shortly before The Times and BBC Panorama released an investigative report into allegations of sexual misconduct. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing. Despite his resignation, Sullivan remains a major shareholder in the club, a fact that the supporters’ body highlighted as part of its rationale for the appeal. The FAB explained that it had previously raised the issue with club officials, noting that many supporters would find Sullivan’s presence unwelcome.
The board warned that his attendance could necessitate heightened security measures at a time when both the club and the stadium are under financial strain. The statement also cited reports that the operators of the London Stadium had already advised the club that Sullivan should not attend matches, recommending that any planned visits be disclosed in advance so that additional safety protocols could be arranged. According to the ground regulations governing West Ham United’s stadium, entry can be denied to any individual whose presence might constitute a danger, nuisance, or annoyance to other spectators. The FAB invoked these rules to underscore its position, suggesting that allowing Sullivan into the arena could breach the venue’s own policies and create unnecessary risk.
While acknowledging Sullivan’s continued shareholding, the supporters’ group expressed disappointment that the club has not taken proactive steps to prevent him from entering the stadium. The FAB warned that his attendance could reignite tensions that surfaced during the final months of his tenure, a period marked by controversy and division among fans. The statement further accused Sullivan of putting personal interests ahead of the club’s welfare, despite receiving high‑level advice that he should stay away from match days. Nevertheless, the FAB also used the opportunity to reaffirm its support for the current West Ham executive team.
It praised the improvements in dialogue between the club’s management and the supporters’ representatives, and it voiced confidence in the direction set by the new leadership. The board urged fans to concentrate on backing the team and fostering a positive atmosphere at the London Stadium, especially as the club kicks off its home campaign against Portsmouth in the EFL Cup on Saturday. Sky Sports News has approached West Ham United for comment, but the club has not responded at the time of writing.
Earlier in the week, reports emerged that the London Stadium’s operators had formally recommended that Sullivan avoid attending games due to the potential for fan unrest. They requested advance notice of any planned appearances so that extra operational and safety measures could be put in place. A spokesperson for the London Stadium provided a detailed response, stating: "Following media reports at the end of the season regarding a safeguarding matter being managed by the club, London Stadium sought further information to ensure it could fulfil its own safeguarding responsibilities.
Based on the information provided by the club, we understand the matter was investigated and that the club does not consider there to be an ongoing safeguarding risk associated with Mr Sullivan attending the stadium. However, given the potential for demonstrations and anti‑social behaviour by some spectators, we have recommended to the club that he does not attend. We have also requested advance notice of any planned attendance so that appropriate safety and operational measures can be put in place.
For operational reasons we will not comment on if we have had notice that he will attend." The stadium’s stance reflects a broader concern within the football community about balancing the rights of high‑profile shareholders with the safety and enjoyment of ordinary fans. In recent years, several clubs have faced similar dilemmas when owners or major investors have been embroiled in controversy. The prevailing view among many supporter groups is that the atmosphere at a football ground should remain free from intimidation or distraction, allowing supporters to focus on the sport itself. West Ham United’s current leadership appears to be navigating a delicate path, seeking to maintain good relations with both the fan base and its major investors.
By acknowledging the FAB’s concerns while also highlighting the club’s commitment to a constructive dialogue, the executives aim to demonstrate that they are responsive to supporter sentiment without alienating a key shareholder. As the season unfolds, the question of whether Sullivan will respect the FAB’s request remains open. The club’s official policy on the matter has not been publicly disclosed, and any future attendance by Sullivan is likely to be closely monitored by both stadium security and fan groups. In the meantime, the FAB’s call serves as a reminder that, for many supporters, the integrity of the match‑day experience is paramount, and that any perceived threat to that experience—whether real or symbolic—will be met with organized opposition.
Ultimately, the situation underscores the complex interplay between governance, fan culture, and commercial interests in modern football. While the FAB’s appeal is rooted in genuine concerns about safety and atmosphere, it also reflects a broader desire among supporters to have a meaningful voice in decisions that affect the club’s public image and day‑to‑day operations.
The upcoming cup tie against Portsmouth will be an early test of how these dynamics play out on the pitch and in the stands, with the supporters’ board urging fans to channel their energy into cheering on the team rather than focusing on off‑field controversies.