Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has been sanctioned by the UK government over Russia’s continuing invasion of neighbouring Ukraine, freezing the sale of the Premier League club.
Described by the UK government as a “pro-Kremlin oligarch”, Abramovich has been hit with an asset freeze and a travel ban.
Culture secretary Nadine Dorries has said that Chelsea will be issued with a “special license”, that will allow the Premier League club to fulfil its fixtures and for “staff to be paid and existing ticket holders to attend matches”.
Abramovich confirmed last week that he has put Chelsea up for sale — but the asset freeze and sanctions on him halt that process under the terms of the “special license” granted to the club.
“I know this brings some uncertainty, but the government will work with the league and clubs to keep football being played while ensuring sanctions hit those intended,” she said on Twitter.
“Football clubs are cultural assets and the bedrock of our communities. We’re committed to protecting them.”
The government has said the licence would be kept under review.
Abramovich has owned the reigning world and European champions since 2003.
A government document published on Thursday claimed Abramovich has had a “close relationship for decades” with the Russian president, Vladimir Putin.
“This association has included obtaining a financial benefit or other material benefit from Putin and the Government of Russia,” it said.
Abramovich has always vehemently denied being close to the Kremlin or having done anything which could merit him being punished.
“There can be no safe havens for those who have supported Putin’s vicious assault on Ukraine,” prime minister Boris Johnson said in a statement.
“Today’s sanctions are the latest step in the UK’s unwavering support for the Ukrainian people. We will be ruthless in pursuing those who enable the killing of civilians, destruction of hospitals and illegal occupation of sovereign allies.”
Shirt sponsors Three have said they are “reviewing the situation and are in discussions with Chelsea FC.”
(Photo: Artyom Geodakyan\TASS via Getty Images)
