The 78-year-old was recently criticised for appointing Malky Mackay as manager after a accusations of racism…
Dave Whelan has stepped down as Wigan chairman with immediate effect and appointed his 23-year-old grandson to follow him in the role, the club has announced on their website.
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The 78-year-old had been criticised for his handling of the Malky Mackay text scandal earlier in the season, after he appointed the former Cardiff City boss to replace Uwe Rosler. Whelan had been banned for six weeks as a result. However, the suspension had already been served before this announcement.
He has appointed his grandson, David Sharpe, as the new chairman of the Latics, and the young boss will be assisted by chief executive Jonathan Jackson in running the club.
Whelan, who had been in charge of the outfit for 20 years, will remain as the majority shareholder but not be involved with any day to day activities.
He released this statement confirming his resignation: “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.”