Sports Direct chairman survives shareholder revolt

Beleagured Sports Direct chairman Keith Hellawell will remain in his post despite a revolt by independent shareholders.

Almost 54% of independent shareholders voted against his re-appointment, but Hellawell survived after being backed by founder and chief executive Mike Ashley, who owns 55% of the company.

The total vote was 80.9% in favour.

Ashley said: “Keith has my full backing and will be continuing in his role on the basis that he has the unanimous support of the board.

“I note that many of those who voted against Keith have acknowledged that we have made positive progress since the AGM.”