March 10, (THEWILL) – Following the United Kingdom’s decision to impose sanctions on Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, the team’s sponsors Three Mobile, are evaluating their relationship with the club.
Part of the global pressure to punish Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has seen the UK impose penalties on the Russian businessman, including an asset freeze and a travel restriction.
Although Abramovich put the club up for sale, any purchase agreement will now be contingent on the UK government approving it and guaranteeing that Abramovich does not profit personally from the purchase.
THEWILL recalls that Chelsea signed a sponsorship contract with mobile phone company, Three, in 2020, but recent events mean the future of the deal has been called into question.
A spokeswoman for Three said: “We are reviewing the situation and are in discussions with Chelsea FC.”
Chelsea has been granted a “General Licence” that allows the club to continue completing its matches, football business, and paying players and staff.
Based on Abramovich’s ties to Russian President, Vladimir Putin, the government effected the Thursday sanctions. However, these connections have also been disputed by Abramovich. Yet, according to a government document released on Thursday, Abramovich has had a “decades-long close relationship” with Putin.
As a result of the sanctions, the Blues will be unable to sell tickets. Season ticket holders and other fans, who have previously purchased tickets will be able to attend.
They are also subject to an effective transfer embargo, which prohibits any new permanent or loan signings. That is likely to apply to new contracts as well, meaning Cesar Azpilicueta, Antonio Rudiger, and Andreas Christensen’s futures are still in doubt, though the latter is anticipated to remain in Stamford Bridge.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
