Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich on Thursday, the 10th, was included in the list of Russian individuals who will be sanctioned by the British government for invading Ukraine. With this action, the billionaire’s assets were frozen, and he was prevented from doing business or traveling to the UK. Thus, the sale of the London club is also at risk. Chelsea is the current winner of the Club World Cup and the UEFA Champions League.
British Chancellor Liz Truss said: “Oligarchs and corrupt rulers have no place in our economy or society. Through their close relations with Vladimir Putin (Russian President), they are complicit in his aggression.”
The punishment for Abramovich has a direct impact on Chelsea’s sporting activities. The Blues are unable to sell, renew or sign new player contracts or of any other nature. The sale of game tickets is also prohibited, and entry to the stadium is only allowed to those who have purchased a ticket package for the entire season.
However, the UK authorities have published a license that gives Chelsea the ability to keep performing football-related tasks, allowing the club to continue participating in the competitions it plays – the Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup.
“In light of the significant impact that today’s sanctions will have on Chelsea Football Club and the potential repercussions, the Government this morning issued a license to allow a range of football-related activities to continue at Chelsea. Activities of interest to continue playing matches and other football – the UK government said in a statement. The link will in turn protect the Premier League, the football pyramid in general, loyal fans and other clubs.”
Abramovich, a longtime friend of Russian President Vladimir Putin, began moving to sell Chelsea just days after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, when he found himself under pressure from the British public. The current manager of the London club, whose value is estimated at more than 26 billion Brazilian reais, has also stated that he will donate the profits of the operation to “the people of Ukraine”.
Abramovich bought Chelsea FC in July 2003 for £140 million. For nearly 20 years, the club has raised its profile globally, collecting idols and collecting trophies in important competitions, such as the Champions League, Europa League, English Championship and Club World Cup.
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