The real reason Abramovich handed over Chelsea has been revealed.
Glamtush reports that Roman Abramovich, Chelsea owner has given up his stewardship of the club in order to prevent it from “becoming hostage to anti-Russian sanctions,” according to a close friend of the billionaire.
On Saturday, the Premier League side confirmed Abramovich has transferred his stewardship to the trustees of the club’s charitable foundation.
Chelsea’s charitable foundation is led by the club’s chairman, Bruce Buck.
Abramovich can continue to fund Chelsea, however, the inner workings of the club will remain unchanged, with Marina Granovskaia still in charge of football operations.
However, Abramovich has moved to distance himself from the club following President Vladimir Putin’s decision to invade Ukraine.
“He’s really doing it to stop the club from becoming hostage to anti-Russian sanctions, which are going to be around for a while now,” a friend of Abramovich told the Financial Times.
This online platform recalls that Abramovich announced handing over Chelsea over to a charitable organisation in a statement on Saturday.
His statement reads, “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.”
Earlier this week, the UK Government announced sanctions against Russian banks, oligarchs and companies.
While Abramovich has not received any sanctions, Labour MP Chris Bryant has called for the seizure of his assets, including Chelsea.
