Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich says he is giving ‘management and care’ of the club to charity trustees
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich unexpectedly handed the power to “manage and look after” the Premier League club to their charity trustees on Saturday.
The move comes after a member of the British Parliament called on the Russian billionaire to hand over the club amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Abramovich, who has owned Chelsea since 2003, does not mention the war in Ukraine in his statement and has significantly not relinquished ownership of the club and is still able to provide funds, arguing that he is not affected. UK government sanctions.
“During my nearly 20 years with Chelsea FC, I have always viewed my role as the club’s supervisor, whose job it is to ensure that we have the success we are today, as well as build for the future. hybrid. also play an active role in our community,” he said.
“I always make decisions in the best interest of the Club. I remain committed to these values. That is why I am giving Chelsea Charity Trustees the reins today. manage and take care of Chelsea FC.
“I believe they are now in the best position to look after the interests of the club, players, staff and fans.”
Conflict in Ukraine enter the third day on saturday following Russia’s invasion of its neighbour, drawing widespread condemnation and punishment from world leaders.
Abramovich is not involved in the detailed day-to-day running of the club under any circumstances, with that role being played by his close friend and club director, Marina Granovskaia, along with his technical advisor. Petr Cech technique and performance.
However, he has had the final say on key decisions, including player transfers and the future of the respective head coaches, which he will now step back, sources say. with ESPN.
Trustees of the foundation include chairman Bruce Buck, Chelsea women’s head coach Emma Hayes, attorney John Devine, chief executive officer of anti-discrimination group FARE Piara Powar, Chelsea chief financial officer Paul Ramos and British Olympic Association vice-president Sir Hugh Robertson, and Sebastien Coe, former Olympic gold medalist and World President of Athletics..
Sources revealed to ESPN that Abramovich does not want to sell Chelsea at this stage and dismissed claims that it was a move designed to evade possible sanctions, with Labor MP Chris Bryant among those who openly questioned whether Abramovich should seize his assets.
Chelsea have won five Premier League titles since Abramovich’s arrival, as well as two Champions League titles in 2012 and 2021. The club have also won five FA Cups during that time.
Information from the Associated Press and ESPN FC reporter James Olley contributed to this report.
