Disgraced former chairman David Sullivan is planning to defy advice not to visit the London Olympic Stadium when the new season commences this weekend.
The 77-year-old has been persona non grata at West Ham United since June when a Panorama documentary highlighted the cases of seven women who had accused Sullivan of sexually exploitative and predatory behaviour - charges that Sullivan denies.Yet despite being advised to stay away from the Stratford stadium, where he was last seen being escorted away by stewards for his own safety, the BBC report that Sullivan intends to defy the advice and attend West Ham home matches still.
A spokesperson for the LOS told BBC News that Sullivan had been "recommended" not to attend matches due to potential issues involving "fan unrest", following the publication of the BBC documentary and the ensuing coverage the story has attracted.
The stadium owners have also requested advance notice of any planned visits by Sullivan, who remains the club's largest shareholder, in order to implement additional safety and operational measures for any visits he should make.
Sullivan out: the story so far
6 June: Sullivan stands down as chair and director ahead of an airing of a Panorama documentary regarding his purported predatory behaviour.
9 June: Panorama and The Times publish allegations from seven women accusing Sullivan of sexually exploitative and predatory behaviour dating back several decades.
11 June: Reports reveal the existence of safeguarding restrictions relating to Sullivan dating back to 2023.
13 June: It is revealed that Karren Brady, who had jumped ship several weeks previously had been aware of the safeguarding issues relating to Sullivan and the FA since 2023
29 June: the club confirms plans are afoot to update the controversial club crest introduced by Brady and Sullivan ahead of the move from Upton Park to Stratford
10 July: Sullivan's departure results in 55,000 season tickets being sold -a record for a Championship club
3 August: Sullivan reveals he intends to return to the club in order to watch home matches
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