Daniel Levy’s nearly quarter-century reign at Tottenham Hotspur has officially come to an end. The club confirmed that the 63-year-old has stepped down as executive chairman, though BBC Sport sources suggest the decision was influenced heavily by ownership, who felt a leadership change was essential for greater sporting success.
Appointed in March 2001, Levy exits just months after Spurs lifted the Europa League in May, ending a 17-year trophy drought. Despite that success, frustration among fans and internal pressure ultimately led to his departure.
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A Legacy of Mixed Success
During his tenure, Levy earned a reputation as one of football’s toughest negotiators, overseeing Tottenham’s transformation into a financially powerful and globally recognized club. He spearheaded the £1bn construction of the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in 2019, considered one of the finest in Europe, and ensured the team consistently qualified for European competitions.
However, his reign was also marred by accusations of underinvestment in the playing squad. Fans often directed chants and protests at Levy, with banners reading “Levy’s game is about greed” becoming common. Last season’s poor Premier League campaign, in which Spurs finished 17th, only intensified calls for change.
Despite the criticism, Levy expressed pride in his work:
“We have built this club into a global heavyweight competing at the highest level. More than that, we have built a community. I wish to thank all the fans that have supported me. It hasn’t always been an easy journey, but significant progress has been made.”
Transition to a New Era
The timing of Levy’s departure, immediately after the summer transfer window, appears deliberate. Peter Charrington, already a non-executive director at Spurs, has now stepped into a new role as non-executive chairman. Meanwhile, Vinai Venkatesham, appointed earlier this year as CEO, will take on a central role in running the club’s day-to-day operations.
The ownership group, ENIC—controlled by the Tavistock Group and the Lewis family—emphasized that this leadership reshuffle is designed to modernize governance and deliver long-term success. They confirmed no change in ownership or shareholder structure.
Tottenham Under Levy: Key Highlights
- Spurs won just two trophies in Levy’s 25 years: the 2008 League Cup and the 2025 Europa League.
- The club reached the 2019 Champions League final under Mauricio Pochettino but lost to Liverpool.
- Financially, Spurs became one of the most profitable clubs in Premier League history, thanks largely to the new stadium and controlled wage spending.
- According to FootballTransfers.com, Spurs spent around £181m this summer on new signings, including Xavi Simons and Mohammed Kudus.
Ownership’s Role in the Exit
Insiders suggest the Lewis family—particularly younger members Vivienne and Charlie—were pivotal in pushing for Levy’s departure. While family patriarch Joe Lewis, 88, played a minimal role, the new generation has taken greater involvement in shaping the club’s direction.
The decision follows a wide-ranging external review earlier this year into Tottenham’s financial and sporting operations. Concerns about underperformance on the pitch and supporter discontent were key drivers in the move.
Reactions from Players, Fans, and Experts
Former Spurs goalkeeper Paul Robinson said fans would have “mixed emotions” about Levy’s departure:
“The legacy Daniel leaves will always be the stadium and the training ground, but also underachievement on the pitch. Still, he can hold his head high on the business front.”
Fans were equally divided. Some praised Levy for modernizing the club, while others felt his cautious approach to transfers had held Spurs back.
One supporter summed it up:
“He made Spurs a financial powerhouse, but football is about trophies. It’s time for new leadership.”
What Comes Next for Spurs?
Tottenham currently sit fourth in the Premier League after three games of the 2025–26 season under new manager Thomas Frank. Ownership hopes this restructuring will provide stability and renewed focus on on-pitch success.
With Levy stepping back but retaining his shareholder stake in ENIC, the club enters a new era—one where results on the field must finally match the club’s financial strength and world-class infrastructure.
