Roman Abramovich announces ‘incredibly difficult’ decision to sell Chelsea
The Roman Abramovich era at Chelsea is set to end.
Statement from Roman Abramovich.
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) March 2, 2022
The Russian billionaire announced Wednesday that he has “taken the decision to sell” Chelsea amid mounting pressure related to the invasion of Ukraine.
“This has never been about business nor money for me, but about pure passion for the game and club,” said Abramovich, who assumed control of the Premier League club in 2003.
Roman Abramovich announces he’s ready to sell Chelsea: “It pains me to part with the Club in this manner. However, I do believe this is in the best interest of the Club”. 🚨🔵 #CFC
“I hope that I will be able to visit Stamford Bridge one last time to say goodbye to all of you”. pic.twitter.com/ckkW4wjpi7
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 2, 2022
“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.”
The 55-year-old oligarch 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.”
Abramovich also said he won’t ask the club to repay him for any loans, which are reportedly worth as much as £1.5 billion.
🔵 Chelsea under Roman Abramovich:
🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆 Premier League x5
🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆 FA Cup x5
🏆🏆🏆 League Cup x3
🏆🏆 Champions League x2
🏆🏆 Europa League x 2
🏆 Super Cup x1
🏆 Club World Cup x1They have won it all. pic.twitter.com/7WchmiaKKm
— Sporting Index (@sportingindex) March 2, 2022
He ended his statement by saying he hopes to return to Stamford Bridge in the future to say farewell to Chelsea supporters.
“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.”