Chelsea Owner, Roman Abramovich Hands Over Stewardship To ‘Trustees of Charitable Foundation’ Amid Russia-Ukraine Conflict

By Sylvia LANO On Feb 26, 2022

Chelsea FC owner, Roman Abramovich has handed over the affairs of the club to trustees of Chelsea’s charitable Foundation.

The latest development comes amid UK sanctions against Russian entities after the invasion of Ukraine.

Mr Abramovich is a Russian oligarch, one of the groups targeted by western sanctions.

There had been uncertainty over Mr Abramovich’s continued control of one of the UK’s most successful clubs amid the crisis.

Mr Abramovich has been linked with potential sanctions due to his links with the Russian-state and Vladimir Putin, which were leaked under Parliamentary Privilege by Labour MP Chris Bryant, who quoted a leaked Home Office document from 2019 confirming the links to the Russian-state.

He has now handed over the club to the trustees who are as follows: Bruce Buck, John Devine, Emma Hayes, Piara Powar, Paul Ramos and Sir Hugh Robertson.

What this means for the long-term future of the football club remains unclear, but for now, Abramovich has put the interests of the club above all else handing over the stewardship to the Foundation.

In a statement released on Saturday released by Abramovich, it read;

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.

Statement from Club Owner Roman Abramovich.

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) February 26, 2022