Chelsea’s Russian billionaire owner Roman Abramovich has issued a statement announcing that he had transferred the stewardship of the club to the club’s charitable foundation.
Abramovich will, however, remain the owner of the club whose players include goalkeeper Edouard Mendy from Senegal.
His decision comes amid the war that has seen Russia invade Ukraine.
There are fears that Abramovich could be among the high profile Russians to face sanctions in connection with the Russian government’s invasion of Ukraine.
His statement read: “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.”
