Abramovich sanctions halt Chelsea sale
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Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has been sanctioned by the UK government, blocking any potential sale of the club. The Russian oligarch announced he intended to depart Stamford Bridge in March
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TIMELINE
Feb 22: Abramovich announces “stewardship and care” of club
will be transferred to trustees
of Chelsea’s charitable foundation

Feb 27: Trustees fail to agree to take control of the club,
citing legal liability concerns

Mar 2: Abramovich reveals plan to sell Chelsea, with all net proceeds going to victims
of war in Ukraine

Mar 10: Sanctioned by UK government as part of response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine – oligarch has all assets frozen, including Chelsea
Move intended to prevent Abramovich making money from Chelsea
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CHELSEA: SPECIAL LICENCE

UK government has issued club licence which authorises only limited football-related activities

Play fixtures, and collect broadcast revenue

Pay staff and player wages, and day-to-day expenditure

Season ticket holders can attend matches

No new ticket sales for upcoming fixtures

Prevented from signing players or awarding contracts

Official club shop closed – merchandise sales stopped
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Sources: BBC, Sky Sports Pictures: Newscom, Getty Images © GRAPHIC NEWS