The Russia- Ukraine war has engulfed all of the world in its psychological wake. What seemed like diplomatic pressurisation by Russia turned into a full-fledged war with Ukrainians bravely defending their land. Putin and Russia would not have expected a fightback from Ukraine and it should have come as a shock to them when the Ukrainian president
Chelsea is currently owned by Roman Abramovich who is a close ally of Putin. It is common knowledge that Abramovich made most of his money due to his close proximity to Putin. Now that Russia is going against Ukraine which means against NATO there is a direct conflict of interest between the UK (a NATO member) and Abramoich (friend of Putin), it is only understandable that they would do everything in their power to hurt Chelsea. So is he going to sell Chelsea?
Abramovich gives up steradship of Chelsea FC
In an official club statement, Abramovich has announced that he would give up the stewardship of the club and not be the custodian anymore. This means that he would not be involved in the running of the club anymore.
When you read between the lines, it is essentially a measure to deflect any political backlash from the club and keep it under his ownership. Look at the Chelsea FC statement below.
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.
In plain English, Abramovich is waiting out this war and would take back the club after it’s over.
Can the UK government seize ownership of Chelsea FC?
Yes, the government can very well seize the club and its assets right away but they would not. If the UK government did not want the close ally of Putin owning a club in England they would have said no right away in the beginning.
They allowed Abramovich to buy the club because it brings money to the UK. What most people do not realise here is that money is the bottom line in all of this. Remember most people are content with fake gestures so they don’t have to do something significant. If the UK could seize ownership of Chelsea FC they would already have.
