Russia/ Ibramovich sanction: Chelsea begs UK govt to allow club operate as “normal as possible”

Chelsea Football Club has responded after its owner, billionaire Roman Abramovich, was among seven new oligarchs sanctioned by the UK government today.

BBC reports that as part of the sanctions against Abramovich, Chelsea FC cannot sell any more tickets for games, its merchandise shop will be closed, and it will be unable to buy or sell players on the transfer market.

However, the government has said it will issue a special licence that allows fixtures to be fulfilled, staff to be paid and existing ticket holders to attend matches.

In a statement, Chelsea FC said it would fulfil its men’s and women’s teams matches today against Norwich and West Ham, respectively.

The club said it intended to engage in discussions with the government regarding the scope of the licence.

The club said this will include seeking permission for the licence to be amended in order to allow it to operate as “normal as possible”.

“We will also be seeking guidance from the UK government on the impact of these measures on the Chelsea Foundation and its important work in our communities.”