BARONESS KARREN BRADY'S WEST HAM ERA ENDS: A LEGACY OF TRANSFORMATION AND CRITICISM

Baroness Karren Brady has stepped down as vice-chair of West Ham United after 16 years, marking the end of an era for the football club.

In a significant move within the world of football governance, Baroness Karren Brady has announced her departure from her role as vice-chair at West Ham United. Her tenure, which began in January 2010 under the ownership of David Sullivan and David Gold, has seen numerous highs and lows over nearly two decades. This decision comes after a period marked by both personal milestones for Brady and challenges faced by the club.

Brady's journey with West Ham began when she was appointed alongside current joint-chair Daniel Kretinsky. During her time in this role, she played a pivotal part in steering the club through major transitions, including the move from Upton Park to the iconic London Stadium in 2016—a relocation that signified a new chapter for both the team and its supporters.

One of the most notable achievements during her tenure was the club's European success. West Ham reached the semi-finals of the Europa League in the 2021-22 season, a remarkable feat for a club not traditionally associated with continental competition. This was followed by an even more celebrated victory when they claimed the Uefa Europa Conference League title in the subsequent campaign.

Despite these successes, Brady's time at West Ham has not been without controversy. She faced criticism from some sections of the fanbase, particularly during the 2025-26 season, which saw protests against both her and co-owner David Sullivan. These tensions highlight the complex dynamics often present in football governance.

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In acknowledging Brady's departure, joint-chair Daniel Kretinsky has praised her contributions to the club's growth. While there have been disagreements among supporters about the extent of her role's impact, Kretinsky emphasized her importance in shaping West Ham's modern identity.

Brady herself expressed gratitude for her time at the club, reflecting on key moments such as lifting the Europa Conference League trophy—a memory that will undoubtedly remain a highlight of her career. Her leadership during high-profile events and decisions, including the £105m transfer of Declan Rice to Arsenal, has left an indelible mark on the club's recent history.

Looking ahead, while Brady's exit marks a significant change for West Ham, her legacy is undeniable. The club will now need to navigate this transition as they continue to build upon the foundations she helped establish over the past 16 years.

It remains to be seen how this shift in leadership will affect the team on and off the pitch. As West Ham looks toward future challenges and opportunities, the influence of Baroness Karren Brady's era will continue to resonate.

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