As scrutiny intensifies across West Ham’s hierarchy—from boardroom decisions to managerial choices, transfers, and squad performance—one figure has largely escaped the spotlight: co-owner Daniel Křetínský. With an estimated net worth of $10.1 billion (Forbes), he was once touted as a potential future majority owner of the East London club.
Křetínský’s portfolio spans a wide array of sectors, including retail, energy, and media—largely held by his private investment firm, Vesa Equity Investment, with a market value in excess of €3bn.
When he acquired his 27% stake in West Ham via his investment vehicle 1890s Holdings in 2021, the deal reportedly included an option clause to increase his shareholding. Yet, despite Vanessa Gold’s 25% stake being available since 2023, Křetínský has not pursued a full takeover.
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As the long-time owner and president of Sparta Prague, UEFA rules would not prohibit him from doing so, though complications could arise if both clubs were to feature in the same European competition (an unlikely scenario for West Ham in the foreseeable future).
Even then, mechanisms like blind trusts could allow him to navigate such conflicts.
Dwindling West Ham influence
Speculation suggests that David Sullivan’s reluctance to relinquish control, coupled with the complex lease arrangements at the London Stadium, have deterred Křetínský from increasing his stake. Previous reports even hinted at him exploring a sale of his shares, though no concrete evidence has emerged.
West Ham shareholders Daniel Kretinsky and David Sullivan
There were reports of s rift between Sullivan and Kretinsky which have been denied by West Ham
Křetínský’s tenure at Sparta Prague, dating back to 2004, has been marked by criticism from fans, as the club has often lagged behind rivals Slavia Prague and Viktoria Plzeň.
His inner circle within West Ham United has also shifted. Pavel Horsky, a trusted legal advisor known for his strategic insight, was replaced in 2022 by Jiri Svarc, who has close ties to Křetínský. The move signalled a subtle but notable change in his representation on the West Ham board. However, Horsky still holds a position on the board of directors and the investment committee at Vesa Equity.
Since his £200 million investment, Křetínský’s stake is now estimated to be worth £250–£300 million—a respectable gain, though far from transformative.
He was reportedly involved in the recruitment of Tim Steidten as Technical Director. In a 2024 episode of the Eventful Lives podcast, Jack Sullivan confirmed that both his father and Křetínský interviewed Steidten, though he clarified that the final decision was made collectively by the board.
Notably, West Ham has yet to establish any formal partnership with Sparta Prague—unlike other clubs that leverage shared ownership for youth development and loan opportunities. Such a collaboration could offer mutual benefits, particularly for academy players seeking competitive experience.
Křetínský remains a low-profile investor, rarely intervening publicly. But with growing frustration directed at majority shareholder David Sullivan, the question lingers: how long will Křetínský stay silent?