Roman Abramovich's nineteen year reign over Chelsea is in its final days.
The Russian has confirmed he has put the Premier League club up for sale.
Abramovich is set to face sanctions from the British government due to his long-standing links with Russian president Vladimir Putin.
The 55-year old bought the West London club in 2003, and his billions have bankrolled the most successful period in Chelsea's history.
Five of their six league titles have been won under Abramovich, they've won the Champions League twice, and are the reigning Club World Champions.
He was present on the pitch in Dubai when Chelsea beat Palmeiras to claim their most recent trophy.
However, Russia's invasion of Ukraine has hastened his exit from English football with his current valuation of the Blues standing at $2.5billion (€2.25bn).
Swiss tycoon Hansjörg Wyss says he's been sounded out about a potential purchase, while LA Dodgers co-owner Todd Boehly is another interested party.
New York merchant bank Raine Group have been tasked with finding a buyer, and it's believed they want firm offers on the table by close of business on Friday.
In a parting statement, Abramovich said, "I have instructed my team to set up a charitable foundation where all net proceeds from the sale will be donated.
"The foundation will be for the benefit of all victims of the war in Ukraine. This includes providing critical funds towards the urgent and immediate needs of victims, as well as supporting the long-term work of recovery."
Roman Abramovich statement:
I would like to address the speculation in media over the past few days in relation to my ownership of Chelsea FC. As I have stated before, I have always taken decisions with the Club’s best interest at heart. 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.
The sale of the Club will not be fast-tracked but will follow due process. 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. The foundation will be for the benefit of all victims of the war in Ukraine. This includes providing critical funds towards the urgent and immediate needs of victims, as well as supporting the long-term work of recovery.
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
Potential Chelsea owners told to have bids on the table by Friday
