Roman Abramovich has announced that he plans to sell Chelsea Football Club following scrutiny over his past ties to Russia.
Abramovich first brought Chelsea in 2003 from Ken Bates for £140m and has since turned the Blues into a successful club, with 21 trophies won under his reign which includes the following titles;
- 5 x Premier League
- 5 x FA Cup
- 3 x League Cup
- 2 x Community Shield
- 2 x Champions League
- 2 x Europa League
- 1 x UEFA Super Cup
- 1 x FIFA Club World Cup.
Abramovich however has come under intense scrutiny after avoiding sanctions by UK Government due to his Russian links, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine which has attracted widespread criticism and disciplinary sanctions across the world.
The 55 year-old has consequently released the following statement in relation to rumours over his future ownership of Chelsea; ‘I would like to address the speculation in media over the past few days in relation to my ownership of Chelsea FC.
‘As I have stated before, I have always taken decisions with the Club’s best interest at heart. In the current situation, I have therefore taken the decision to sell the Club, as I believe this is in the best interest of the Club, the fans, the employees, as well as the Club’s sponsors and partners.’
Abramovich has also moved to confirm that any sale of Chelsea ‘will not be fast-tracked’ and instead adhere to the regulatory process, whilst iterating that he won’t request repayment of any loans out of ‘pure passion for the game and Club.’
In a further move, Abramovich added that he has ‘set up a charitable foundation’ in aid of all victims in Ukraine, with the ‘net proceeds from the sale’ set to be donated to the foundation in order to help provide ‘critical funds towards the urgent and immediate needs of victim,’ plus long-term recovery work.
Addressing Chelsea supporters, Abramovich also iterated that his decision to sell the club after nearly two decades was ‘incredibly difficult’ to make under these circumstances, yet insists that his decision ‘is in the best interest of the Club.’
The Russian businessman also stated that he wishes to have the chance to say goodbye to the club and supporters at a future home game, as he said: ‘I hope that I will be able to visit Stamford Bridge one last time to say goodbye to all of you in person.’
Abramovich concluded by reflecting on the club’s success under his reign as he commented: ‘It has been a privilege of a lifetime to be part of Chelsea FC and I am proud of all our joint achievements. Chelsea Football Club and its supporters will always be in my heart.’
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