Czech investor Daniel Kretinsky to acquire 46% of West Ham, becoming largest shareholder

Daniel Kretinsky, who controls Royal Mail, has struck a deal to acquire a 46% interest in West Ham, positioning him as the club's principal shareholder. The transaction includes purchasing a portion of the Gold family's 25% holding, prompting former chairman David Sullivan to increase his stake from 38.8% to roughly 40%. Tripp Smith will see his share rise to 11%, leaving the rest of the investors with a combined 3% stake.

The agreement excludes Amanda Staveley, whose recent attempt to invest in the club will not proceed. Sullivan, who stepped down as chairman in June, is under ongoing scrutiny by the independent football regulator, though the new share structure is not expected to trigger further review. Neither Kretinsky, Sullivan, Gold nor West Ham have issued comments on the arrangement.