Roman Abramovich has ‘stepped back’ as owner of Chelsea as the UK government freezes the assets of Russian banks and 100 individuals or businesses.
In a club statement, #CFC have confirmed that Roman Abramovich will remain Chelsea owner. Director Marina Granovskaia together with Petr Cech will take care of every club aspect like contract extensions, new signings and more.
Although it is suggested that Abramovich has made this move to protect Chelsea as a club, including its board and players, there is perhaps more at stake for the Russian oligarch.
Abramovich’s links with the Kremlin are well documented although his political career is less known. Abramovich was the governor of Chukotka from 2000 to 2008 where he was awarded the Order of Honour for his “huge contribution to the economic development of the autonomous district”, by a decree signed by the President of Russia, Putin.
Perhaps most telling is Abramovich’s relative silence on the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Indeed, he is treading carefully between conflict with Putin and the UK government, saying nothing and hiding in plain sight.
The Daily Mirror has reported that Labour MP Chris Bryant has called for Abramovich to be banned from owning the club following Russia’s decision to invade neighbouring Ukraine.
Bryant has also questioned whether Abramovich’s “£152million home” should be seized. The billionaire owns other assets in the UK.