Roman Abramovich gives 'stewardship' of Chelsea to club trustees
Roman Abramovich, owner of Chelsea FC
Roman Abramovich has handed the "the stewardship and care of Chelsea" to trustees of the club's charitable foundation, in a bid to protect the Blues from continual links to the conflict in Ukraine.
The 55-year-old will remain as Chelsea owner, but will not be involved in any decision-making at the Stamford Bridge club.
Chelsea's senior leadership set-up will not change, it is understood, and Abramovich's step backwards will not have a bearing on any possible UK Government sanctions, but was a decision taken solely in the club's interests.
The Russian, who took over at Stamford Bridge in 2003, said in a statement: "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."
