Roman Abramovich confirms he is selling Chelsea with billionaire pair waiting in the wings
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has confirmed his intention to sell the club following Russia’s continued invasion of Ukraine.
The billionaire has transformed the Blues since taking them over in 2003, with 19 major trophies being won in that time. However, his glittering reign in west London is now nearing an end.
A consortium of billionaires have already made their interest public.
Swiss businessman Hansjorg Wyss and American investor Todd Boehly are understood to be two of the parties joining forces and now preparing a bid.
“I would like to address the speculation in the media over the past few days in relation to my ownership of Chelsea FC,” read Abramovich’s statement on the club website.
“As I have stated before, I have always taken decisions with the club’s best interest at heart.
“In the current situation, I have therefore taken the decision to sell the club. I believe this is in the best interest of the club, the fans, the employees, as well as the club’s sponsors and partners.”
The 86-year-old Wyss has already revealed his intention to bid for Chelsea.
Abramovich could yet come under UK government sanctions given his proximity to the Russian state, though he is also understood to have been attempting to broker a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine.
Abramovich makes Ukraine pledge
He has vowed not to rush the sale of a club that have won two Champions League titles, as well as the Club World Cup title earlier this year, under his ownership.
Abramovich has also pledged to donate any net proceeds from the club’s sale to help victims of the war in Ukraine.
“The sale of the club will not be fast-tracked but will follow due process,” he continued.
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“I will not be asking for any loans to be repaid. This has never been about business nor money for me, but about pure passion for the game and club.
“Moreover, I have instructed my team to set up a charitable foundation where all net proceeds from the sale will be donated.
“The foundation will be for the benefit of all victims of the war in Ukraine. This includes providing critical funds towards the urgent and immediate needs of victims, as well as supporting the long-term work of recovery.”
Chelsea ‘always in his heart’
The long-term Chelsea owner revealed his sadness at relinquishing his ownership of the Blues, hoping he will be to make one more visit to Stamford Bridge before the club is sold.
He added: “Please know that this has been an incredibly difficult decision to make. And it pains me to part with the club in this manner.
“However, I do believe this is in the best interest of the club.
“I hope that I will be able to visit Stamford Bridge one last time to say goodbye to all of you in person.
“It has been a privilege of a lifetime to be part of Chelsea FC. And I am proud of all our joint achievements. Chelsea Football Club and its supporters will always be in my heart.”
READ MORE: Where are they now? Chelsea’s first starting XI of the Abramovich era
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