'West Ham set for multimillion pound cash boost after January update'

01/27/2025 02:19 PM

West Ham United have successfully won a legal dispute with their stadium owners over a £3.6 million payment, according to The Times.

According to the outlet’s website on 27 January, the East London club contested a payment made after Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky acquired a 27 percent stake in the club.

This payment was linked to a clause in the stadium lease agreement, which stated that any increase in the club’s value due to a deal for the London Stadium should trigger a payment to the stadium’s owners.

When West Ham moved into the London Stadium, their initial deal included a ten-year clause, which expired in 2023, entitling the London Legacy Development Corporation to a fee if any stake in the club was sold.

However, a recent court ruling has determined that £3.6m of this payment must be now refunded.

Paul Mitchell KC, the deputy High Court judge, stated in the ruling: "In my judgment, WH Holding (WHH) has proved that the expert determination in this case contains two manifest errors. Accordingly, I shall grant the declaration sought by WHH that the determination is not final and binding on WHH” [The Times].

In response, an LLDC spokesman said: "West Ham appealed the determination, as it is entitled to do, and the court has found in its favour. We have reviewed the judgment and are currently assessing our options — including the potential for an appeal."

West Ham can benefit from extra funds amid power struggle

Football Insider Verdict

West Ham chairman David Sullivan has frustrated fans of late, but this recent development provides some positive news for the club.

Football Insider reported back in May 2024 that Kretinsky and his 1890 Holding consortium were becoming increasingly influential in key decisions regarding management and transfers.

As the club's second-largest shareholder, 1890 Holdings holds considerable sway. However, this recent court ruling may shift the balance of power back in Sullivan's favour.

Kretinsky's influence had been evident when he played a part in the decision to part ways with David Moyes last summer. Yet that move seems to have backfired, as the club quickly dismissed Moyes’ replacement, Julen Lopetegui, only a few months later.

Now, the balance of power could shift again, potentially empowering Sullivan more in the decision-making process.

It remains to be seen if this newfound financial boost will be used to benefit Graham Potter's efforts at the club moving forward.

In other news, West Ham are getting closer to signing this Premier League striker.

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