David Sullivan sues BBC for over £150m
West Ham shareholder claims defamation following Panorama documentary detailing allegations from seven women.
David Sullivan is suing the BBC for more than £150 million in damages at the High Court. The legal action follows a Panorama documentary broadcast in June, which featured accounts from seven women alleging sexually exploitative and predatory behaviour by Mr Sullivan. Mr Sullivan has previously denied these claims.
Legal Action Over Documentary Claims
Lawyers representing Mr Sullivan confirmed on Thursday that they have been instructed to pursue the High Court claim against the BBC for defamation. The allegations detailed in the documentary, which aired in June, relate to Mr Sullivan's conduct during the 1980s and 1990s when he owned the Daily Sport and Sunday Sport newspapers. He has stated he "categorically denies" the claims made against him.
Mr Sullivan resigned as joint chairman of West Ham United in June, prior to the publication of the allegations. He stated at the time that his resignation was to allow him to fight what he described as "factually incorrect and entirely false, decades-old allegations concerning my personal life".
Ongoing Inquiries
In addition to the High Court proceedings, external investigations are also underway. Essex Police have confirmed they have "received some contact" following the broadcast of the allegations and that inquiries are ongoing. Separately, the Independent Football Regulator stated in August that its own inquiries into Mr Sullivan's suitability under its Owners, Directors and Senior Executives regime are "active and ongoing".
Mr Sullivan remains a significant figure at West Ham United, holding a 40% stake in the club as its second-largest shareholder.
Questions this report answers
01How much is David Sullivan suing the BBC for?
David Sullivan is suing the BBC for more than £150 million in damages at the High Court. His legal team confirmed the figure on Thursday, stating the claim is for defamation.
02What are the allegations against David Sullivan?
The allegations stem from a June Panorama documentary, which featured seven women claiming Mr Sullivan engaged in sexually exploitative and predatory behaviour. These claims reportedly date back to the 1980s and 1990s.
03What is David Sullivan's connection to West Ham United?
David Sullivan resigned as joint chairman of West Ham United in June, before the documentary aired. He remains the club's second-largest shareholder, holding a 40% stake.
04Are there any other investigations into David Sullivan?
Yes, Essex Police are conducting ongoing inquiries after receiving contact following the allegations. The Independent Football Regulator is also undertaking separate active inquiries into Mr Sullivan's suitability as a director.
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