Chelsea granted special license by UK to allow club's football-related activities

By Muhammed Enes Calli

ANKARA (AA) - Chelsea was given a special license Thursday to continue football-related activities by the British government after authorities sanctioned the club's Russian owner Roman Abramovich, according to officials.

The English football giants released a statement after the government announced a full asset freeze and travel ban on seven Russian oligarchs, including Abramovich, for Moscow’s war on Ukraine.

"By virtue of his 100 per cent ownership of Chelsea FC plc and affiliated entities, Chelsea FC would normally be subject to the same sanctions regime as Mr Abramovich. However, the UK Government has issued a general licence that permits Chelsea FC to continue certain activities," said the government statement.

The men’s and women’s teams will be on the pitch Thursday against rivals Norwich City and West Ham United, respectively, while the club intends to talks with the government about the "scope of the licence," said Chelsea.

"This will include seeking permission for the licence to be amended in order to allow the Club to operate as normal as possible, "it added.

In a statement earlier Thursday, the government said the license "includes permissions for the club to continue playing matches and other football related activity which will in turn protect the Premier League, the wider football pyramid, loyal fans and other clubs."