A non-executive director of the Independent Football Regulator (IFR), Tara Warren, has been recused from any potential inquiry into allegations of sexual misconduct against David Sullivan. The decision was made to prevent a conflict of interest stemming from her previous role as an executive director at West Ham United, including a directorship of the club’s women’s team.
Mr Sullivan, 77, announced his resignation as a director and co-chair of West Ham last Saturday. This move preceded the publication of a joint investigation where seven women made accusations against him of abusing his power and preying on them for sex, with claims dating back to the 1980s and 1990s. Despite his resignation from the board, Mr Sullivan remains the largest shareholder of the London Stadium club, holding a 38.8% stake. The IFR has described the allegations as “extremely serious” and is currently seeking further clarity on the situation before potentially launching an investigation. The regulatory body possesses statutory powers that could compel a club owner to divest their shares if deemed unsuitable.
Since 2023, Mr Sullivan has been subject to restrictions on his contact with West Ham’s women and youth teams, following a safeguarding investigation by the Football Association (FA). He previously characterised this restriction as “meaningless” and not amounting to a ban, stating he accepted it “for a quiet life”. West Ham issued a statement confirming these safeguarding measures were in line with the club’s safeguarding policy, agreed upon with the FA and the local authority. The club added that only a “very limited number” of employees were initially informed, although reports this week suggest the women’s team is now aware of these restrictions.
Ms Warren, who departed West Ham last December, was appointed as a director of the women’s team in February 2023. She originally joined the club in 2009 as marketing director and was promoted to executive director in 2014. She was also understood to be a close associate of Karren Brady, who stepped down as West Ham’s vice-chair in April. Ms Warren was appointed by then Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy as one of five non-executive directors of the IFR in February this year.
An IFR spokesperson confirmed the recusal, stating: “The IFR has robust policies and processes in place to ensure any interests that may conflict with the responsibilities of board members are known and managed accordingly. Where a board member does have a conflict or perceived conflict of interest, they will be recused from any decision making role relating to the matter.” Ms Warren has denied any prior knowledge of the allegations against Mr Sullivan before their public disclosure this week. Through his legal representatives, Mr Sullivan has also denied all allegations made against him.
It is understood that Mr Sullivan is open to the possibility of selling his significant stake in West Ham. Daniel Kretinsky, the club’s second-largest shareholder, is reportedly interested in acquiring a majority stake, potentially by purchasing the Gold family’s 25% holding.
Source: Independent Football Regulator, West Ham United, The Guardian