The Chelsea Supporters' Trust have slammed the UK Government 's "illogical" decision to continue banning Blues fans from purchasing tickets for Premier League matches.
The West Londoners were initially forbidden from selling tickets to any games as a result of the sanctions placed upon the club's Russian owner Roman Abramovich following his nation's invasion of Ukraine. Despite various restrictions being imposed, Chelsea were still able to operate under a 'special licence'.
The Blues were then handed a significant boost on Wednesday as the government decided to amend the terms of the licence in order to allow the club's spectators to attend upcoming FA Cup and Champions League matches. However, much to the dismay of Chelsea's Supporters' Trust, the sale of Premier League tickets remains prohibited.
In response to the amendments, the Trust hit back at the government over their decision. The organisation accused them of "punishing supporters" while branding the decision as "illogical".
A statement from he group read: "The Chelsea Supporters' Trust notes the decision to amend the 'special licence'. The Trust will urgently seek clarification from the DCMS and Chelsea FC on why CFC members will not be able too purchase tickets to home Premier League fixtures at Stamford Bridge.
"The sanctions were not bought in to punish supporters - this decision is illogical and unfounded. Further amends must be made."
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While fans remain unable to purchase tickets for upcoming Premier League matches, they will now be able to attend the Blues' FA Cup semi-final with Crystal Palace at Wembley. In addition, spectators can now attend the first-leg of their Champions League quarter-final with Real Madrid next month.
However, Chelsea won't receive any proceeds from tickets sold, with UEFA set to collect the cash. The government’s updated licence officially states that all proceeds from ticket sales must be transferred “to a permitted third party".
The Premier League confirmed in a statement: “Chelsea FC have requested and the Premier League agreed that this revenue will be donated to charity to benefit victims of the war in Ukraine. The beneficiary charities will be announced in due course after consultation with the club.”
On Wednesday, Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston said: “The Government has today made alterations to the licence to Chelsea Football club so that fans will be able to access tickets to away matches, cup games and women's fixtures.
"I would like to thank fans for their patience while we have engaged with the football authorities to make this possible. Since Roman Abramovich was added to the UK’s sanctions list for his links to Vladminir Putin we have worked extensively to ensure the club can continue to play football while ensuring the sanctions regime continues to be enforced.”
The limit Chelsea can spend on matchday overheads has already been increased by the government since sanctions were first announced. Discussions are ongoing surrounding more flexible budget for first-team away travel.
