Czech billionaire Daniel Křetínský boosts West Ham stake via Jakub Havrlant

Daniel Křetínský, the Czech Republic’s third‑richest investor, is intensifying his bid to become the largest shareholder of English football club West Ham United. After an earlier attempt to increase his 27% holding stalled, Křetínský sold roughly a 2% share to fellow Czech billionaire Jakub Havrlant. The move enables Křetínský to purchase a 25% stake in the late owner David Gold’s share package for about £150 million, without exceeding the 50% threshold that would trigger a mandatory buy‑out of another major shareholder, David Sullivan.

The transaction is subject to existing shareholders’ pre‑emptive rights, with a two‑stage purchase process expected to last around two months. Křetínský’s strategy follows previous collaborations with Havrlant, including a multi‑billion‑crown deal involving Mall Group and WE|DO. The ownership battle unfolds amid a scandal surrounding co‑owner David Sullivan, accused of past misconduct.

If successful, Křetínský could significantly increase his influence over West Ham’s sporting and commercial direction.