Romshell as Abramovich steps back
today’s Carabao Cup Final against Liverpool at Wembley.
Abramovich confirmed the trustees of Chelsea’s charitable foundation would be given responsibility for the ‘stewardship and care’ of the club.
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.”
Chelsea’s chairman, Bruce Buck, heads the foundation, with other trustees including Chelsea women’s manager Emma Hayes, Kick It Out’s chief executive Piara Power, John Devine, Sir Hugh Robertson and Paul Ramos.
Abramovich will remain as Chelsea owner and will still be able to invest money into the club, providing no sanctions are placed on him.
Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Labour MP Margaret Hodge asked in Parliament last week why the Blues owner had not been targeted by UK sanctions on high net-worth Russian individuals.
It is understood that the club is not for sale, which will lead to much speculation that Abramovich is simply protecting his asset and will simply resume his stewardship and care if or when the horrifying situation in Ukraine comes to end.
Notably, the statement from Chelsea made no reference to the war and nor in it did Abramovich move to criticise Russian president Vladimir Putin for orchestrating it.
ROMAN’S 19 TROPHIES SINCE 2003
Club World Cup: 2021
Champions League: 2012, 2021
Europa League: 2013, 2019
Super Cup: 2021
Premier League: 2004-05, 2005-06, 2009-10, 2014-15, 2016-17
FA Cup: 2007, 2009, 2010, 2012, 2018
League Cup: 2005, 2007, 2015