West Ham United Women's relegation to the Championship has added to the financial woes of the London Stadium, with the venue's operator forecasting a £19million loss for 2025/26. The club's reduced rent will offset some of the additional income from summer concerts.

What happened?

Lyn Garner, chair of London Stadium LLP, revealed the latest figure while appearing before the London Assembly's Economy, Culture and Skills Committee. The accounts are expected to show an operating loss of about £19million. West Ham paid around £4.6million in annual rent while competing in the Premier League.

Why it matters for West Ham United Women

The club's relegation to the Championship will reduce its rent by approximately £2.5million this season. City Hall previously estimated that the clause would leave taxpayers covering a further £2million to £2.5million each year. The reduction in West Ham's rent will offset some of the additional income from summer concerts.

What comes next?

London Stadium LLP remains responsible for the venue's overheads, maintenance, and repair costs. Converting the stadium between football, athletics, and concert configurations also places pressure on its finances. The West Ham stadium deal remains financially beneficial to the club, which does not carry responsibility for most stadium operating costs. However, the forecast loss ensures the arrangement will continue to attract political scrutiny.

Background

The agreement was signed in 2013 before West Ham moved from Upton Park three years later. Garner told Assembly members that relations between the stadium operator and the club had historically been tense because of disputes over the contract. The West Ham stadium deal faces renewed scrutiny after the venue's operator forecast a £19million loss for 2025/26.