Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich dropped a bombshell on Saturday evening by declaring that he was handing over “stewardship and care” of the club to Chelsea ’s charitable foundation.
The 55-year-old Russian oligarch bought Chelsea in 2003 and his wealth has helped the club win every trophy available during his tenure.
Abramovich’s ownership of the Blues has come under the spotlight following Russia ’s invasion of Ukraine in the early hours of Thursday.
Labour MP Chris Bryant told parliament on Thursday that Abramovich should hand over the club due to his alleged close ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin – something he has always denied.
Under mounting pressure, Abramovich has taken the decision to distance himself from his beloved club.
In a statement he said: “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.”
What Abramovich’s commitment means in practice remains to be seen, but the trustees of the club’s foundation are clear.
Here are the six people who have been handed power by the club’s Russian owner.
Bruce Buck
Buck is the Chelsea club chairman and, according to the club website , has been a supporter since coming to London in 1983 and a season ticket holder since 1991.
The 75-year-old American is a shareholder in Chelsea Limited, the company used by Abramovich to buy the club back in 2003.
Under his tenure, Chelsea have won five Premier League titles, five FA Cups, three League Cups, the Europa League and the Champions League.
John Devine
Devine is a sports lawyer. He is a partner and head of the sports team at law firm Muckle LLP.
Emma Hayes
Hayes has been the manager of Chelsea’s women’s sides since June 2012.
She is widely regarded as a trailblazer in the sport and has led Chelsea to four Women’s Super League titles, three FA Cups and two League Cups during her time in charge.
Piara Powar
Powar is the former chief executive of Kick It Out and is the current executive director of anti-discrimination and social inclusion network, FARE.
Paul Ramos
Ramos is Chelsea’s director of finance – a role he has held since February 2018.
He has worked in the club’s finance department for over 20 years.
Sir Hugh Robertson
Robertson is a hugely experienced sports organiser and politician.
The 59-year-old is the vice-chair of the British Olympic Association and former Minister for the Olympics, where he oversaw the day-to-day preparations and delivery of The London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
He was previously the Member of Parliament for Faversham and Mid Kent and held the roles of Minister of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs and Minister for Sport.
