Roman Abramovich

‘Can’t sell the club’: Chelsea left in limbo after UK govt freezes $17b owner’s assets

Abramovich had been attempting to unload the London side but The Times reports the UK government has sanctioned seven high-profile oligarchs, including Abramovich who is worth an estimated $17 billion.

“Chelsea have been given a special licence to continue with football related activities but the sale effectively bars the sale of the club,” reporter Steven Swinford tweeted.

Under the restrictions, Chelsea cannot sell tickets to games - with only season ticket holders allowed to attend - nor merchandise.

‘Escalated incredibly quickly’: Why Chelsea billionaire bailed out

Premier League chief executive Richard Masters welcomed Roman Abramovich’s decision to put Chelsea up for sale as fans thanked the Russian for the club’s “unparalleled success” under his ownership.

The billionaire has not been named on a growing British sanctions list targeting Russian banks, businesses and pro-Kremlin tycoons following Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.