A new independent football regulator could force West Ham United co-owner David Sullivan to sell his majority stake in the club, according to reports. The proposed regulator, which is part of the government's fan-led review of football governance, would have powers to assess the suitability of club owners and directors.
David Sullivan, who owns a 51% stake in West Ham alongside David Gold's family trust, could be required to divest his shares if the regulator deems his ownership not in the best interests of the club. The move is aimed at ensuring that club owners are fit and proper persons, and that they have the financial resources to run clubs sustainably.
The regulator would also have the power to block takeovers by unsuitable buyers and to impose conditions on owners. This could include forcing owners to sell if they are found to have breached rules or if their ownership is detrimental to the club.
The government is expected to publish its white paper on football governance soon, which will outline the details of the regulator. The regulator is likely to be established by 2024 and will have the power to license clubs and enforce financial regulations.
West Ham fans have been critical of Sullivan's ownership, citing a lack of investment in the squad and high ticket prices. The club has also been involved in a dispute with the London Stadium owners over the terms of their lease.
Sullivan, who made his fortune in the adult entertainment industry, has owned West Ham since 2010. He has previously said he would consider selling the club if the right offer came along.
The regulator's powers could also affect other clubs, with several Premier League and Football League clubs having owners who have been criticized by fans. The regulator is part of a wider package of reforms designed to improve the financial sustainability of football clubs and to give fans a greater say in how their clubs are run.
The government has said that the regulator will be independent and will have the power to impose sanctions on clubs that breach rules. The regulator will also be responsible for overseeing the distribution of funds from the Premier League to the lower leagues.
The news has been welcomed by fan groups, who have long called for greater regulation of football club ownership. However, some club owners have expressed concerns that the regulator could be too powerful and could interfere in the running of clubs.
The white paper is expected to be published in the coming weeks, and the regulator could be established by 2024. The government has said that the regulator will be funded by a levy on clubs.
