Abramovich hands control of Chelsea to club's charitable foundation
The Russian oligarch published a statement about his control of the club in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and possible sanctions against him.
Russian oligarch and owner of Chelsea Roman Abramovich has published a statement on the club website saying he is handing control of the club to the "trustees of Chelsea’s charitable Foundation". The move comes in the wake of potential sanctions to be imposed on Abramovich by the UK government over his alleged support for Russian president Putin who has ordered a military invasion of Ukraine.
Statement from Abramovich over Chelsea control
The statement from Abramovich reads as follows:
"During my nearly 20-year ownership of Chelsea FC, I have always viewed my role as a custodian of the Club, whose job it is ensuring that we are as successful as we can be today, as well as build for the future, while also playing a positive role in our communities. I have always taken decisions with the Club’s best interest at heart. I remain committed to these values. That is why I am today giving trustees of Chelsea’s charitable Foundation the stewardship and care of Chelsea FC.
I believe that currently they are in the best position to look after the interests of the Club, players, staff, and fans."
Tuchel worried and distracted
Chelsea First team coach Thomas Tuchel said yesterday that the potential government sanctions for club owner Roman Abramovich were "distracting and worrying" for him and his players.