‘Temporary agreement’ in place since Football Association safeguarding investigation began three years ago

David Sullivan has faced restrictions on his contact with West Ham’s women’s and youth teams since 2023 because of a safeguarding investigation.

The Football Association began an inquiry three years ago after receiving a complaint, which the Guardian understands involves an allegation of sexual misconduct unrelated to football.

Former pornographer, who owns 38.8% of club, has been accused of sexually exploitative and predatory behaviour

The football regulator could force David Sullivan to sell his stake in West Ham United after the former pornography billionaire was accused of sexually exploitative and predatory behaviour against women over several decades.

The 77-year-old announced his resignation as a director and co-chair of the football club on Saturday, ahead of a joint investigation by the BBC and the Times reporting on seven women accusing him of sexual misconduct.