Roman Abramovich is Chelsea’s most successful owner. After orchestrating the club’s takeover in 2003, the Russian billionaire has been a vital influence behind the scenes as the Blues have had an extraordinary run of success.
Chelsea has positioned itself as a power on domestic and European footballing landscapes due to its substantial investment at Stamford Bridge and astute backroom personnel.
Therefore, it was surprising to see Abramovich cede care and stewardship of the club on Saturday evening amid Russia’s ongoing confrontation with Ukraine.
He reaffirmed his plans in a brief statement released on the club’s website, raising numerous worries about what this could entail for his future ownership of Chelsea.
As things stand, the Russian remains the club’s owner but has stepped aside from day-to-day management – but how this affects future investment is unknown.
What is certain is that Abramovich remains one of the wealthiest individuals in the sport, if not the globe.
According to Forbes, Russia’s current net worth is a whopping $13.6 billion (£10.1 billion), ranking him 142nd among the world’s wealthiest people.
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Despite this, it is apparent that Abramovich’s fortune has declined significantly since acquiring Chelsea nearly two decades ago.
He was previously Russia’s wealthiest man, with a net worth of around $23.5 billion (£17.5 billion), which peaked in 2008.
That riches has undoubtedly suffered a significant impact due to the 55-year-continuing old’s investment in the Blues.