Anthropic to disable its most advanced AI models after US order limiting foreign access
Anthropic to disable advanced AI models following US order limiting foreign access.
The Guardian World1 min read
West Ham shareholders address Sullivan allegations and agree ownership deal
TL;DR
West Ham shareholders Daniel Kretinsky and Vanessa Gold have condemned David Sullivan following allegations of sexual misconduct. Kretinsky's ownership stake will increase to 43%, making him the club's largest shareholder.
Key points
- David Sullivan faces allegations of sexual misconduct.
- Daniel Kretinsky's stake will rise to 43%.
- Kretinsky will become West Ham's largest shareholder.
Mentioned in this story
West HamDavid SullivanDaniel KretinskyVanessa Gold
Two of West Ham's major shareholders have spoken out against David Sullivan after striking a deal that will see Daniel Kretinsky become the club's biggest shareholder.
Kretinsky and Vanessa Gold said they were "deeply concerned" after allegations of sexually exploitative and predatory behaviour were levelled against Sullivan by a joint BBC Panorama and Times investigation.
Kretinsky's stake in the club will rise from 27% to 43%, exceeding Sullivan's 38.8%.
"Our thoughts go out to those women who have fought so hard to make their voices heard," said Kretinsky and Gold in a statement.
"Any abuse of power is abhorrent, and it takes great courage and determination to speak up against it."
Sullivan, 77, said he "categorically" denies the claims, which span the period when he made a fortune from pornography, newspapers and football.
Kretinsky and Gold said the "full West Ham United Board was not notified about these allegations against Sullivan until approximately a month ago", but did not know the full details of the allegations until they were made public on Monday.
Sullivan has been banned from having contact with the club's women's and youth teams for the last three years because of safeguarding concerns.
Kretinsky and Gold said: "As communicated by West Ham, the Board representatives of shareholders other than David Sullivan were only made aware this week of the safeguarding measures that have been in place since 2023."
West Ham are dealing with the fall-out from the investigation at the same time as they are attempting to make an immediate return to the Premier League after being relegated for the first time since 2012.
"As shareholders and directors of West Ham, our focus is now firmly on protecting the future of this football club," said Kretinsky and Gold.
"As such, we have reached agreement on the key terms of a share purchase transaction between the Gold family and 1890 Holdings, which, subject to other shareholders' pre-emption rights and necessary approvals, would make 1890 Holdings (part of the broader group EP) the largest shareholder in West Ham with an approximately 43% stake.
"As the largest shareholder, group EP will be able to provide the additional financing the club needs."
More to follow
Q&A
What allegations were made against David Sullivan?
David Sullivan faces allegations of sexually exploitative and predatory behavior as reported by a joint BBC Panorama and Times investigation.
How will the ownership structure of West Ham change?
Daniel Kretinsky's stake in West Ham will increase from 27% to 43%, surpassing David Sullivan's 38.8% stake.
What was the response from Kretinsky and Gold regarding the allegations?
Kretinsky and Gold expressed deep concern for the women involved and condemned any abuse of power, emphasizing the courage it takes to speak out.
