David Sullivan, West Ham majority shareholder, accused of sexual exploitation and abuse of power by seven women | OneFootball

David Sullivan, West Ham’s majority shareholder, has been accused by seven women of sexual exploitation and abuse of power, days after stepping down as the club’s co-chairman. The 77-year-old called the claims false when resigning on Saturday.

The BBC and The Times report, in a joint investigation, that the alleged conduct dates back to the 1980s and spans several decades. All seven were around their early twenties and seeking modelling work at the Daily Sport or Sunday Sport, titles Sullivan founded and owned.

Two say they felt they had no choice but to have sex with him, fearing for their careers. They describe Sullivan, who made his fortune in the pornography industry, as exploiting young people.

One woman, identified as Florence*, says he had sex with her against her wishes and that he promised to make her one of his Sports girls, a regular Sunday Sport cover model, if she complied. She later worked at the Sunday Sport.

Sullivan denies all allegations and has not faced criminal proceedings. Following publication of the claims, the Independent Football Regulator contacted West Ham about the very serious accusations and is urgently seeking information to determine whether he can continue in his current role.

Source: L'Équipe