What happens now at relegated West Ham?

West Ham United's relegation from the Premier League was confirmed following their final game loss to Leeds, coupled with Everton's victory over Tottenham. Despite needing a win and favorable results elsewhere, the team ultimately fell short, succumbing to a campaign marked by disappointment.

Fans expressed their frustration, directing chants at chairman David Sullivan, whom many blame for the club's current predicament. However, Sullivan possesses a track record of orchestrating immediate returns to the top flight, having achieved this feat twice with Birmingham City (2007, 2009) and once with West Ham (2012).

This period marks a significant shift for West Ham. Sullivan is now operating without his long-time business partner David Gold, who passed away in January 2023. The ownership structure has also evolved, with Gold's daughter Vanessa holding a substantial stake, American businessman Tripp Smith owning 8%, and Daniel Kretinsky in the process of increasing his share. Furthermore, vice-chair Karren Brady departed in April, and Karim Virani has stepped in as chief executive.

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The Group's principal business risk remains that of the men's football club being relegated with the serious financial consequences which follow.

Financially, West Ham is navigating challenges, having reported a loss of £104 million in their latest accounts ending May 31, 2025, and anticipating another substantial loss this year. The implementation of Squad Cost Rules for the 2026-27 season by the English Football League is a potential mitigating factor, as clubs will be permitted to spend 85% of their income. West Ham's income is expected to significantly surpass that of Championship rivals.

Despite these financial headwinds, the club's accounts highlighted the "serious financial consequences" of relegation, necessitating "more significant mitigating actions such as further player disposals to generate transfer fee income and wage savings." Club sources estimate an overall revenue drop of 50% to 60% from the previous £227.6 million.

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In the event of relegation more significant mitigating actions would be required such as further player disposals to generate transfer fee income and wage savings.