Chelsea not for sale despite Roman Abramovich stepping back amid Russia-Ukraine conflict

Chelsea will not be put up for sale despite Roman Abramovich’s dramatic decision to hand over stewardship of the European champions.

The Russian billionaire has distanced himself from the running of the club, with decisions now being made by the trustees of Chelsea’s charitable foundation, headed by Bruce Buck.

Abramovich’s shock announcement came less than 24 hours before the Carabao Cup final, where Chelsea face Liverpool, and at a time when tensions are growing between the west and Russia, following the invasion of Ukraine.

The decision is said to be motivated by Abramovich’s desire to protect the club and avoid the situation in Ukraine overshadowing their season.

He is not among the list of Russian oligarchs to be sanctioned amid the UK’s response to Vladimir Putin’s invasion.

Chelsea insist Abramovich has no intention of selling, even after stepping away.

The board of trustees also includes Chelsea Women manager Emma Hayes, executive director of anti-discrimination group Fare Piara Powar, Sebastian Coe, Paul Ramos, John Devine and Sir Hugh Robertson.

Transfer decisions and the future of Thomas Tuchel will be in the hands of director Marina Granovskaia and technical advisor Petr Cech.

In his statement Abramovich made no mention of the crisis in Ukraine.

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.”