Chelsea FC owner Roman Abramovich announced Saturday that he is giving direct control of the club to trustees of Chelsea’s charitable foundation. The news comes just days after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as the 55-year-old billionaire Russian owner finds himself at the center of the discussion over the country’s influence in London in particular.
Abramovich released the following statement:
“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.”
With a League Cup final on the horizon Sunday where Chelsea will face Liverpool this is quite the shock ahead of an important game. But as Abramovich’s ownership of the club could be in question if stricter sanctions are imposed on Russia, it feels like he’s getting in front of things in hopes of protecting the club.
Along with American Bruce Buck as club chairman, the trustees now in the stewardship of the club include: John Devine, Chelsea women’s manager Emma Hayes, Piara Powar, Paul Ramos and Sir Hughe Robinson. For now, Chelsea are not up for sale and Abramovich still holds the ownership title, but obviously things seem to be fluid and could change at a moment’s notice with what’s happening in his home country. It’s remains to be seen if this is a temporary or permanent stewardship once the dominoes fall.