Daniel Kretinsky Appointed Joint-Chair of West Ham United
Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky has been named joint-chair of West Ham United, following reports of a deal to significantly increase his stake in the Premier League club. The appointment comes as the club undergoes substantial boardroom changes, including the departure of long-serving vice-chair Karren Brady.
Stake Increase and Ownership Restructuring
Kretinsky, whose EP Group completed a £3.6 billion takeover of Royal Mail owner IDS last year, is expected to increase his shareholding in West Ham to more than 40 percent. Previously the second-largest shareholder with a 27 percent stake, he will acquire part of the Gold family's 25 percent holding, according to multiple sources.
David Sullivan, who has controlled West Ham since purchasing the club with the late David Gold in 2010, is also set to buy some of the Gold family's shares. This move will elevate Sullivan's stake above 40 percent, placing him on equal footing with Kretinsky in terms of ownership influence.
Boardroom Departures and Club Challenges
The leadership changes follow the exit of vice-chair Karren Brady, who served the club for over 16 years after previously holding a similar role at Birmingham City. Director Nathan Thompson has also left West Ham with immediate effect, amid speculation about additional boardroom departures.
West Ham currently faces on-field challenges, battling to avoid relegation from the Premier League for the second time during Sullivan's tenure. The team sits just one place above the relegation zone with five games remaining in the season.
Tributes to Departing Vice-Chair Karren Brady
In the club's official statement regarding Brady's departure, Kretinsky's tribute appeared above Sullivan's, highlighting her significant contributions. "I want to thank Karren most sincerely for our collaboration since 2021 and for all the work she has done in the past for the club," Kretinsky stated.
He emphasized her essential role in West Ham's growth, particularly in securing the long-term lease for the London Stadium, managing shareholder transitions, and overseeing the British record transfer of Declan Rice. "Karren is also very highly appreciated in the Premier League leadership community and was an excellent representative of our club there," he added.
The club noted that Baroness Brady will now focus on her broader business interests, including non-executive roles, contributions in the House of Lords, mentoring, leadership initiatives, and her continued involvement with television series The Apprentice.
Brady expressed her ongoing passion for football, stating: "While this chapter closes, my passion for football and commitment to supporting the next generation of leaders remains undiminished. I wish West Ham United every success for the future and look forward to following their continued achievements with pride."
