Chelsea released a statement on Sunday stating the situation around Russia’s invasion of Ukraine was “horrific and devastating.”
The statement from the Blues came after Russian owner Roman Abramovich handed over the stewardship of theLondon side to the trustees of the club’s charitable foundation, amid calls in Britain that he be sanctioned over Russia’s invasion.
It is a well-known fact that a portion of Abramovich’s wealth stems in part from his extensive mining operations in Russia, due supposedly to his close relationship with the Russian premier, Putin. However, he clearly made no references to the situation in Ukraine or to the issue of sanctions in his statement released on Saturday.
“The situation in Ukraine is horrific and devastating. Chelsea FC’s thoughts are with everyone in Ukraine. Everyone at the club is praying for peace,” the club said.
ESPN had been informed by reliable sources that Abramovich is not looking to sell Chelsea at this stage and rejected the claim that the move to hand over stewardship is a calculated move to evade possible sanctions, with Labour MP Chris Bryant among those openly questioning whether Abramovich should have his assets seized.
Abramovich released a rare statement on Saturday evening to announce his intention to hand over stewardship of the club.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
To his credit, Chelsea enjoyed the most successful period in their history after the decisive albeit tough Russian billionaire took over in 2003, winning five Premier League titles, five FA Cups and the Champions League twice.