The West Ham United Fan Advisory Board (FAB) has publicly urged David Sullivan to refrain from attending any of the club’s home games, warning that his presence could act as a distraction and raise security concerns. In a formal statement, the FAB explained that allowing Sullivan into the London Stadium could cause offence and upset among certain sections of the fan base, potentially provoking hostile reactions that would detract from the matchday experience. Sullivan stepped down from his role as a director and joint chairman of West Ham in June, just before The Times and BBC Panorama released an investigative report into allegations of sexual misconduct.
While he has consistently denied any wrongdoing, the controversy surrounding the accusations continues to cast a long shadow over his involvement with the club. The supporters’ group highlighted that many fans view Sullivan’s attendance as unwelcome and that his presence might necessitate heightened security measures at a time when both the club and the stadium are under financial strain. The FAB referenced reports indicating that the operators of the London Stadium have already advised the club that Sullivan should not be present at matches.
This recommendation was based on the potential for unrest among spectators and the need for additional safety protocols. According to the stadium’s ground regulations, entry can be denied to any individual whose presence could constitute a danger, nuisance, or annoyance to other attendees. The FAB argued that these rules provide a clear basis for preventing Sullivan from entering the venue, especially given the heightened sensitivities surrounding the recent allegations.
Although Sullivan remains a major shareholder in West Ham United, the fan advisory board expressed disappointment that the club has not taken proactive steps to bar him from matchday attendance. They warned that allowing him to sit in the stands could reignite the tensions that marked the final phase of his tenure, when the club’s leadership was frequently under scrutiny.
The statement also criticized what the FAB described as Sullivan’s tendency to place personal interests ahead of the club’s collective good. They noted that senior advisers had reportedly urged him not to attend, yet he appeared to disregard that counsel. This perceived disregard for the advice of club officials and supporters alike was framed as a breach of the trust that should exist between a major stakeholder and the wider fan community.
Despite these concerns, the FAB reiterated its support for the current executive team at West Ham United. They praised the recent improvements in dialogue between the club’s management and its supporters, and expressed confidence in the direction the new leadership is taking. The board emphasized that the focus should be on backing the team on the pitch and fostering a positive atmosphere at the London Stadium.
West Ham’s upcoming home campaign kicks off with an EFL Cup tie against Portsmouth on Saturday. The FAB called on supporters to concentrate on cheering for the team and creating an uplifting environment, rather than allowing off‑field controversies to dominate the conversation.
Sky Sports News has reached out to West Ham United for comment, but the club has not responded at this time. Earlier in the week, it was reported that the London Stadium’s operators had formally recommended that Sullivan avoid attending games due to the risk of fan unrest.
They requested that the club provide advance notice of any planned visits by Sullivan so that extra safety and operational measures could be arranged if necessary. A spokesperson for the London Stadium said: "Following media reports at the end of the season concerning a safeguarding matter being managed by the club, the 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 whether we have had notice that he will attend." The stadium’s stance underscores the delicate balance between ensuring the safety of all attendees and respecting the rights of shareholders.
While the club has not issued a formal response, the FAB’s appeal adds pressure on West Ham United’s leadership to consider the broader implications of allowing a controversial figure into the stadium. In summary, the Fan Advisory Board is asking supporters, club officials, and stakeholders to prioritize the well‑being of the fan community and the integrity of matchday experiences over any individual’s desire to be present at the ground.
By keeping the focus on the team’s performance and maintaining a secure, welcoming environment, the FAB believes West Ham can move forward positively despite the lingering fallout from the recent allegations against David Sullivan.