As a consequence of the outbreak of war between Russia and Ukraine, the Russian Roman Abramovich, owner of Chelsea, left the administration and care of the team in the hands of the charitable foundation.
Abramovich, who took charge of Chelsea from 2003, announced in a statement that the charitable foundation is in “the best position” to ensure the interests of the institution.
This statement was published before tomorrow’s game against Liverpool for the League Cup. The measure, according to the media, was taken in the midst of the UK’s discomfort over the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
“During my almost 20 years as owner of Chelsea, I have always seen my role as custodian of the club, whose job it is to ensure that we are as successful as possible; as well as building for the future, while playing a positive role in our communities”, says Abramovich in the letter.
In that same line add: “I have always made decisions with the best interest of the club in mind. I remain committed to these values. That is why today I am giving the trustees of the Chelsea Charitable Foundation the administration and care of Chelsea FC.”
The Russian owner, considered to be very close to the Kremlin, highlights that the foundation is in the best position to “look after the interests of the club, the players, the coaching staff and the fans”.
United Kingdom sanctions against Russia
The government of The UK this week imposed a series of sanctions against Russia. Although he is not sanctioned, Abramovich has had problems traveling to the British nation for four years, in view of the deterioration of this country’s relations with Russia.
In order to move to the United Kingdom, the Russian tycoon began using an Israeli passport; although he has done it very infrequently. In fact, since 2018, he has only visited Stamford Bridge once, his team’s stadium.2022
“Abramovich continues to be a matter of interest to the country because of its links with Russia and because of its association with corrupt activities,” said Chris Bryant, a Labor MP, during his intervention on Thursday in the House of Commons.
Among the assets that Roman Abramovich owns in the United Kingdom, there is a mansion valued at more than $152 million dollars, located in central London. His total fortune exceeds $ 10 billion dollars, according to the news agency EFE.