Kretinsky agrees to become largest West Ham shareholder
Czech businessman Daniel Kretinsky strikes deal to become West Ham's largest shareholder, in a move that shuts out Amanda Staveley.
Royal Mail owner Daniel Kretinsky is set to become the largest shareholder in West Ham, acquiring a 46% stake in the club. This deal follows a pact with the remaining shareholders, including former chairman David Sullivan and the Gold family, who own 25% of the club. The Gold family's portion will be sold by co-chair Vanessa Gold, who previously agreed to part-sell to Kretinsky following allegations against Sullivan.
Once all transactions are complete, Sullivan's shareholding will rise from 38.8% to 40%. The move excludes former Newcastle director Amanda Staveley from the process, with her stake set to decrease to 3%. The deal also sees Tripp Smith's stake increase to 11%. Independent regulator the IFR is already scrutinizing Sullivan's suitability under their owner, director, and senior executive regime, though this latest development is unlikely to prompt further investigation. No comment has been made by Kretinsky, Gold, Sullivan, or the club itself.
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