David Sullivan quits West Ham after being made aware of 'serious historic allegations'

West Ham have confirmed that David Sullivan has quit his role at the club after 16 years of service.The 77-year-old, who was co-chairman of the Hammers, has departed just weeks after the club's relegation to the Championship was confirmed.West Ham have released a statement confirming Sullivan's exit, saying that he's leaving after being 'made aware of the impending publication of serious historic allegations'.It is also made clear that Sullivan 'denies any illegal conduct' and is poised to address the matter 'privately'. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say West Ham's statement read: West Ham United can confirm that Joint-Chair David Sullivan has stepped down from his position with immediate effect.Mr Sullivan has also resigned as a director of both WH Holding Limited and West Ham United Football Club, having been made aware of the impending publication of serious historic allegations.It is understood none of the allegations relate to West Ham United or any of its operations.Through his own legal representatives Mr Sullivan denies any illegal conduct and has taken the decision to step down in order to avoid disruption to the Club while he addresses the matter privately.Interim Chief Executive Officer Karim Virani, reporting into the current Board of Directors, will continue to be responsible for leading the Club’s day-to-day operations.The Club will provide an update on the future structure of the Board of Directors in due course, but will make no further comment at this time.LATEST SPORTS NEWS:Graeme Souness bemoans state of modern football as England star called outFerrari boss Fred Vasseur rushed to hospital ahead of Monaco Grand PrixGareth Southgate lands new role before England begin World Cup campaignSullivan and his long-time business partner, the late David Gold, completed their takeover of the club in 2010.He oversaw the Hammers' move to the London Stadium in 2016, four years after the London Olympics took place in the venue.His spell in charge has seen highs and lows. The club were relegated in 2011, while they dropped down to the Championship just two weeks ago despite thumping Leeds United 3-0 on the final day of the season.However, there has been silverware along the way.West Ham secured promotion to the Premier League in 2012, bouncing straight back up, after overcoming Blackpool 2-1 in the play-off final at Wembley.The highest point in their recent history came in the summer of 2023, when David Moyes steered West Ham to glory in the UEFA Conference League.Italian side Fiorentina were beaten 2-1 in the final in Prague, with Said Benrahma and Jarrod Bowen both scoring.It's shaping up to be a big summer of change at West Ham following their recent relegation, especially with Karren Brady leaving her own position earlier in the year.Several big players could leave the club, with captain Bowen linked with the likes of Liverpool and Newcastle.Matheus Fernandes has also attracted interest from big sides, with Manchester United, Real Madrid and Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain all emerging as potential suitors.At one point, it was rumoured that manager Nuno Espirito Santo would be leaving.However, the Portuguese is poised to stay and attempt to steer them back to the top flight at the first time of asking. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter