It has emerged that Roman Abramovich has been sanctioned by the United Kingdom Government and as such all his assets have been frozen in the UK, and this includes his 100 percent share at Chelsea.
Roman Abramovich’s engagement in the UK has come under serious scrutiny since Russia waged a war in Ukraine. This forced the Chelsea owner to hand over the club to the Chelsea Foundation to take stewardship while he is away.
Recently, the Russian had given permission for the club to be sold and the net proceeds thereof donated for the restoration of Ukraine. However, this may not be the case as the UK Government has taken charge of all his assets in their territory.
Therefore, the Chelsea Football Club has written to the UK Government to undertake the necessary steps to ‘engage the UK Government regarding the scope of the licence’ it has been given.
The sanctions are such that, Chelsea Football Club will continue to play it’s remaining matches. And only those with seasonal tickets can have access to these games. Which means the club can not sell tickets. In conclusion, no form of new business is supposed to be done within the club without the control of the Government.
Below is the full statement from the club:
“By virtue of his 100 per cent ownership of Chelsea FC plc and affiliated entities, Chelsea FC would normally be subject to the same sanctions regime as Mr Abramovich. However, the UK Government has issued a general licence that permits Chelsea FC to continue certain activities.
We will fulfil our men’s and women’s team fixtures today against Norwich and West Ham, respectively, and intend to engage in discussions with the UK Government regarding the scope of the licence. This will include seeking permission for the licence to be amended in order to allow the Club to operate as normal as possible. We will also be seeking guidance from the UK Government on the impact of these measures on the Chelsea Foundation and its important work in our communities.
The Club will update further when it is appropriate to do so”.
