BREAKING: Chelsea’s Russian owner Roman Abramovich to relinquish stewardship of club

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has suggested that he will step down from running the club’s day to day operations.

The Russian national has been at the helm at Stamford Bridge for almost 20 years.

But while he did not say he was leaving the Blues, Abramovich appears to be preparing for a less hands-on role at the club.

“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,” Abramovich explained in a statement released on Chelsea’s official website.

“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.”

Chelsea position on official statement made by Abramovich. The club is understood to be ‘not for sale’ as things stand – also, Roman Abramovich is still the owner. 🔵 #CFC

The decision to step back announced today has been made in order to help and protect the club. pic.twitter.com/Gv57ze5Pzb

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 26, 2022

Abramovich will remain as Chelsea’s owner and, providing he is not sanctioned, can still invest money into the club, but he has handed the running and decision making to the trustees of the club’s charitable foundation.

The Chelsea Foundation is the charitable arm of the current European champions and are responsible for a number of campaigns both on and off the pitch in London and further afield.

It is specifically the umbrella organisation for both Chelsea’s Football in the Community and Education departments, alongside the remainder of the charitable and community activities organised by the club.

The Foundation was only set up in 2010 as a way to assist both the Chelsea community around the world and of course in the immediate vicinity of Stamford Bridge.

It is officially based at the club’s west London home.

The Foundation does not have a specific remit but organising a wide-ranging list of activities and programmes.

This includes but is not limited to employment, women’s sport, equality, charity work and family engagement.

What their role would be following Abramovich’s latest decision remains to be seen.