By Aiwu Esele, with Agency Reports
The ongoing Russo-Ukraine war has taken a toll on club owner Roman Abrahamovich and he has part ways with Chelsea football club.
The Premier League premier club is up for sale as Abrahamoich claims he’s setting up a foundation for victims of the war.
Abramovich has been under intense scrutiny since Russian president Vladimir Putin invaded Ukraine, beginning a bloody war that has inspired widespread condemnation around the globe.
One report claims that Abramovich is seeking an eye-popping $5.3 billion for the London giants, while our partners at Sky Sports say he is worries about sanctions that could come due to Russian leader Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine.
H tweeted in his verified tweeter handle that ” … net proceeds from sale of Chelsea will be dedicated to war victims in the ongoing Russia/Ukraine.”
His decision to step aside followed decision that was taken in the United Kingdom parliament last week. Labour MP, Chris Bryant called for Abrahamovich, who has been Chelsea’s owner since 2003 to be barred from owing Chlesea due to to the conflict. Abrahamovich has denied close ties to Putin and Russia.
Below is the full statement from Chelsea’s soon-to-be former owner.
“I would like to address the speculation in media over the past few days in relation to my ownership of Chelsea FC. As I have stated before, I have always taken decisions with the Club’s best interest at heart. In the current situation, I have therefore taken the decision to sell the Club, as I believe this is in the best interest of the Club, the fans, the employees, as well as the Club’s sponsors and partners.
“The sale of the Club will not be fast-tracked but will follow due process. I will not be asking for any loans to be repaid. This has never been about business nor money for me, but about pure passion for the game and Club. 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. This includes providing critical funds towards the urgent and immediate needs of victims, as well as supporting the long-term work of recovery.
“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.
“I hope that I will be able to visit Stamford Bridge one last time to say goodbye to all of you in person. 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.
“Thank you,
Roman”
