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Dave Whelan steps down as Wigan Athletic chairman

Wigan Athletic have confirmed that Chairman Dave Whelan has resigned his position as Chairman of the football club, with immediate effect. In a statement on the club's website they announced Mr Whelan’s grandson David Sharpe will take over the role.

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Whelan: 'The time has come to hand over the reins'

Dave Whelan has resigned as chairman of Wigan Athletic and appointed his 23 year-old grandson, David Sharpe, as his successor.

In a statement Mr Whelan said:

“The time has now come to hand over the reins. I am approaching 80 years old and spend an increasingly long time abroad, and cannot make it to games. It is a decision I have been mulling over for some years and I believe David is now ready.

“Contrary to some suggestions, there are no plans to sell the club, which will remain in family hands and I have every confidence that David, along with Chief Executive Jonathan Jackson, will lead us forwards with wisdom.

“In making this announcement, I would like to say huge thank you to the Board of Directors, all the staff at the club, and of course the wonderful supporters of Wigan Athletic, who have helped make the journey over the past 20 years such an exciting and memorable one.”

– Dave Whelan

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Dave Whelan steps down as Wigan Athletic chairman

Dave Whelan Credit: Press Association

Wigan Athletic have confirmed that Chairman Dave Whelan has resigned his position as Chairman of the football club, with immediate effect.

In a statement on the club's website they announced Mr Whelan’s grandson David Sharpe will take over the role.

Last year Dave Whelan was fined £50,000 by the Football Association and banned from all football activity for six weeks following remarks he made regarding Jewish and Chinese people.

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