“In the current situation, I have therefore taken the decision to sell the club, as I believe this is in the best interest of the club, the fans, the employees, as well as the club’s sponsors and partners.”
Chelsea have won 19 major trophies in the Abramovich era, including their first two Champions League crowns and five Premier League titles.
But the 55-year-old’s reign will come to an end following the fall-out from the Russian invasion.
The British government have yet to order sanctions against Abramovich, who is said to be close to Russian President Vladimir Putin, but the Chelsea owner’s concern about potential seizing of assets is said to have sparked his move to off-load the Blues.
Swiss billionaire Hansjorg Wyss and USA investor Todd Boehly are reported to be two of the parties now preparing a joint bid for Chelsea.
Abramovich, who made a rare appearance to watch Chelsea win the Club World Cup in Abu Dhabi recently, has also pledged to donate any net proceeds from the sale to help victims of the war in Ukraine.
“The sale of the club will not be fast-tracked but will follow due process,” Abramovich said
“I will not be asking for any loans to be repaid. This has never been about business nor money for me, but about pure passion for the game and club. Moreover, I have instructed my team to set up a charitable foundation where all net proceeds from the sale will be donated.
“Please know that this has been an incredibly difficult decision to make, and it pains me to part with the Club in this manner. However, I do believe this is in the best interest of the Club.”
“I hope that I will be able to visit Stamford Bridge one last time to say goodbye to all of you in person. It has been a privilege of a lifetime to be part of Chelsea FC and I am proud of all our joint achievements. Chelsea Football Club and its supporters will always be in my heart.”
Thank you, Roman
Chelsea sale: Abramovich to donate profits to Ukraine war relief
Abramovich, who has owned Chelsea since 2003, also confirmed he would not ask for any loans owed to be repaid and that any net proceeds from the sale will be donated to a charity aiding victims from the war in Ukraine.
Chelsea who have won all trophies since Roman Abramovich took over Chelsea in 2003 and the latest trophy they won was the FIFA Club World Cup after beating Palmeiras in the Final. Chelsea were now on the verge of winning another trophy in the Roman Abramovich era as they are still in the Emirates FA Cup and Champions League.
Chelsea sale: Blues owner Roman Abramovich announces decision to sell the club, to donate profits to Ukraine war relief- Check full statement
