The UK government has announced it has reached a position where it can issue a licence that permits the sale of Chelsea. Todd Boehly’s £4.25billion takeover of the Stamford Bridge club was approved by the Premier League on Tuesday evening.
“Late last night the UK government reached a position where we could issue a licence that permits the sale of Chelsea Football Club,” read a government statement. “Following the sanctioning of Roman Abramovich, the Government has worked hard to ensure Chelsea Football Club has been able to continue to play football.
"But we have always been clear that the long-term future of the club could only be secured under a new owner.” The west London club was put up for sale in March before owner Roman Abramovich was sanctioned over his links to Russian president Vladimir Putin.
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Chelsea have been operating under a special government licence, which expires on May 31. “Following extensive work, we are now satisfied that the full proceeds of the sale will not benefit Roman Abramovich or any other sanctioned individual,” continued the statement.
“We will now begin the process of ensuring the proceeds of the sale are used for humanitarian causes in Ukraine, supporting victims of the war. The steps today will secure the future of this important cultural asset and protect fans and the wider football community.
"We have been in discussions with relevant international partners for necessary licences required and we thank them for all their cooperation.”
Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media Nadine Dorries thanked officials who have 'worked tirelessly' to keep the club playing. She said in a tweet: "Last night the Government issued a licence that permits the sale of @ChelseaFC. Given the sanctions we placed on those linked to Putin and the bloody invasion of Ukraine, the long-term future of the club can only be secured under a new owner.
"We are satisfied the proceeds of the sale will not benefit Roman Abramovich or other sanctioned individuals. I want to thank everyone, especially officials who’ve worked tirelessly to keep the club playing and enable this sale, protecting fans and the wider football community".
Los Angeles Dodgers co-owner Boehly will become Chelsea’s controlling owner once the takeover is complete. California investment firm Clearlake Capital will assume the majority shareholding.
