Roman Abramovich steps down as Chelsea owner following Russian invasion

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has decided to step down as the chairman of the West London side.

The Russian billionaire handed "stewardship and care" of Chelsea to the club's charitable foundation following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

It's been gathered that Russian-born Abramovich should not be allowed to own Chelsea due to his alleged links to Vladimir Putin's regime.

The official statement shared on Chelsea's website reads:

"During my nearly 20-year ownership of Chelsea FC, I have always viewed my role as a custodian of the Club, whose job it is ensuring that we are as successful as we can be today, as well as build for the future, while also playing a positive role in our communities. I have always taken decisions with the Club’s best interest at heart. I remain committed to these values. That is why I am today giving trustees of Chelsea’s charitable Foundation the stewardship and care of Chelsea FC.

"I believe that currently they are in the best position to look after the interests of the Club, players, staff, and fans."

It's been learnt that The Chelsea FC Foundation trustees include John Devine, Paul Ramos, Piara Powar, Emma Hayes, Sir Hugh Robertson and Bruce Buck.