War in Ukraine: Roman Abramovich (Chelsea FC) "disqualified as a director" by the Premier League

"Following the imposition of sanctions by the UK Government, the Premier League board has disqualified Roman Abramovich as a director of Chelsea FC," announced the English league on 12/03/2022.

"As part of the UK's leading efforts to isolate (Vladimir) Putin and those around him, seven of Russia's wealthiest and most influential oligarchs - including Roman Abramovich owner of Chelsea FC - will have their assets in the UK frozen, they are banned from travelling here and no UK citizen or company may do business with them," announced the UK Government on 10/03/2022. The sale of the London club, announced by the Russian businessman on 02/03/2022 and entrusted to the American investment bank The Raine Group, has therefore been suspended.

"The board's decision does not impact on the club's ability to train and play its fixtures, as set out under the terms of a licence issued by the Government which expires on 31/05/2022," added the Premier League.

Under a "special licence" granted by the British government, Chelsea is still allowed to pay the salaries of its employees, including players…