Chelsea’s owner, Mr. Roman Abramovich has refuted media rumors of retaining the proceeds from the sale of his club.
This was disclosed in a statement on the club’s website, adding that he has no intentions of collecting the loan owed by the club.
The statement read; “Firstly, Mr. Abramovich’s intentions in relation to gifting the proceeds from the Chelsea sale to charity have not changed.
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“Since the initial announcement, Mr. Abramovich’s team has identified senior representatives from UN bodies and large global charitable organizations who have been tasked with forming a Foundation and setting out a plan for its activities.
“The lead independent expert has had conversations with Government representatives presenting the structure and initial plans.
“Mr. Abramovich has not been involved in this work and it has been managed independently by experts with years of experience working in humanitarian organizations.
Secondly, Mr. Abramovich has not asked for any loan to be repaid to him — such suggestions are entirely false, as are suggestions that Mr. Abramovich increased the price of the Club last minute.
“As part of Mr. Abramovich’s objective to find a good custodian for Chelsea FC, he has however encouraged each bidder throughout this process to commit to investing in the Club — including in the Academy, Women’s team, necessary redevelopment of the stadium as well as maintaining the work of Chelsea Foundation.”
The statement added that since the sanctions placed on Abramovich by the United Kingdom due to his country’s invasion of Ukraine, the loan has become the subject of topic.
“The funds will be frozen and subject to a legal procedure governed by authorities. These funds are still earmarked for the Foundation. The Government is aware of these restrictions as well as the legal implications.
“To be clear, Mr. Abramovich has no access or control of these funds and will not have any access or control of these funds following the sale.
“Despite the changing circumstances since his initial announcement — he remains committed to finding a good custodian for Chelsea FC and making sure the proceeds go to good causes.”