Dave Whelan has resigned after 20 years from his position as chairman of Championship side Wigan Athletic. The 78-year-old will stay as owner but his grandson, 23-year-old David Sharpe, will oversee the running of the club.
Whelan's reign as chairman ends with the Latics 23rd in the Championship and nine points from safety with 12 league games to play.
As well as their previous success on the pitch, Whelan also funded the construction of a new 25,000 all-seater stadium, which opened in 1999 at a cost of around £30m.
"The time has now come to hand over the reins," he said in a club statement.
"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."
Everton boss Roberto Martinez, who led Wigan to FA Cup victory in 2013 during his four-year stint as Latics boss, said it was "a shock" to hear Whelan had stepped down.
