Chelsea's owner Abramovich was sanctioned by the UK government for his alleged ties with Russian president Vladimir Putin amid the country’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
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Chelsea FC’s shirt sponsor Three has suspended its deal with the club after owner Roman Abramovich was sanctioned by the British government. The British telecommunication and internet service provider started sponsoring the Blues at the start of last season in a deal worth around EUR 40 million per year, and its logo is prominently displayed on the club’s kits, around the Stamford Bridge stadium and at the training facility in Cobham.
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In light of the government’s recently announced sanctions, we have requested Chelsea Football Club temporarily suspend our sponsorship of the club, including the removal of our brand from shirts and around the stadium until further notice. 1/2
— Three UK (@ThreeUK) March 10, 2022
Russian billionaire Abramovich was sanctioned by the UK government for his alleged ties with his nation’s president Vladimir Putin amid the country’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine. The 55-year-old’s assets would be frozen and it would have a major impact on the Blues as they have been granted a license limiting their activities. The club can still play games, but financial activities have been curbed and has prompted those associated with the London club to consider their positions.
Three had earlier said on Thursday that it was considering its relationship with the club, before confirming it would temporarily suspend sponsorship and requesting its branding be removed. The telecommunication company is mid-way through the three-year agreement which is due to expire at the end of the 2022-23 season.
“In light of the government’s recently announced sanctions, we have requested Chelsea Football Club temporarily suspend our sponsorship of the club, including the removal of our brand from shirts and around the stadium until further notice,” read a statement, as per espn.in.
“We recognise that this decision will impact the many Chelsea fans who follow their team passionately. However, we feel that given the circumstances, and the Government sanction that is in place, it is the right thing to do.
“As a mobile network, the best way we can support the people of Ukraine is to ensure refugees arriving in the UK from the conflict and customers currently in Ukraine can stay connected to the people who matter to them. Therefore, we are offering connectivity packages to all Ukrainians in the UK, and those in Ukraine.”
Car manufacturer Hyundai, whose agreement is thought to be worth around EUR10m per season, said in a statement: “Hyundai has become one of the strongest partners in football over the years & the company supports the sport to be a force for good. We are currently assessing the situation with Chelsea FC.”
Despite all the off-field problems, Chelsea defeated Norwich City 3-1 in the Premier League fixture at Carrow road on Thursday to solidify their third spot in the standings. Thomas Tuchel’s side scored two goals inside the opening 15 minutes through Trevoh Chalobah and Mason Mount before Teemu Pukki pulled one pack for the hosts from the penalty spot on 69 minutes. But Kai Havertz’ 90th minute strike sealed Chelsea’s victory.
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