Former Daniel Levy, long-time chairman of Tottenham Hotspur, says he never once imagined the club would find itself fighting relegation.
Speaking at Windsor Castle on Wednesday after being made a CBE at an investiture ceremony, Levy told the Press Association that “relegation was not something we ever considered” during his tenure — especially while overseeing the construction of the £1 billion Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in 2019.
Spurs currently sit just two points above the relegation zone, with only 38 points from 36 league matches, finally securing their first Premier League win of 2026 on April 25.
Asked about the club’s precarious position, Levy replied:
“Emptiness… but I’m optimistic we will remain in the Premier League.”
When asked whether he ever foresaw the club slipping into a relegation fight, he answered:
“Never, no — not in a million years.”
Despite the team’s struggles, Levy said he will continue attending matches, adding:
“It’s in my blood.”
Levy received his CBE from Prince William for his charitable and community work in Tottenham — contributions to education, health, social inclusion, and job creation linked to the stadium project.
He said Tottenham fans should be proud of the club’s impact on the local area.
As the Premier League’s longest-serving chairman during his 24-year leadership, Levy was often accused by supporters of prioritising commercial growth over on-pitch success. Reflecting on his tenure, he admitted he wished he had secured more major trophies:
“What I would have hoped for is winning the Premier League, winning the Champions League… easier said than done.”
Levy added that he spoke with Prince William — a committed Aston Villa supporter — about the club during the ceremony.
