Roman Abramovich has confirmed that Chelsea Football Club is for sale.
After media speculation that Abramovich had agreed to sell the Premier League giants, the news has now been confirmed with a remarkable statement on Wednesday afternoon.
The Russian billionaire wrote on Chelsea's official website: "I would like to address the speculation in media over the past few days in relation to my ownership of Chelsea FC.
Abramovich confirms Chelsea sale
"As I have stated before, I have always taken decisions with the Club’s best interest at heart. In the current situation, I have therefore taken the decision to sell the Club, as I believe this is in the best interest of the Club, the fans, the employees, as well as the Club’s sponsors and partners.
"The sale of the Club will not be fast-tracked but will follow due process. I will not be asking for any loans to be repaid. This has never been about business nor money for me, but about pure passion for the game and Club.
"Moreover, I have instructed my team to set up a charitable foundation where all net proceeds from the sale will be donated. The foundation will be for the benefit of all victims of the war in Ukraine.
"This includes providing critical funds towards the urgent and immediate needs of victims, as well as supporting the long-term work of recovery.
"Please know that this has been an incredibly difficult decision to make, and it pains me to part with the Club in this manner. However, I do believe this is in the best interest of the Club.
"I hope that I will be able to visit Stamford Bridge one last time to say goodbye to all of you in person. It has been a privilege of a lifetime to be part of Chelsea FC and I am proud of all our joint achievements. Chelsea Football Club and its supporters will always be in my heart.
"Thank you, Roman."
Soccer Football - Champions League Final - Manchester City v Chelsea - Estadio do Dragao, Porto, Portugal - May 29, 2021 Chelsea's Kepa Arrizabalaga celebrates with owner Roman Abramovich after winning the Champions League Pool via REUTERS/Michael Steele
What now for Chelsea?
Chelsea are now striding into an uncertain period in their history with the Abramovich era at Stamford Bridge having harvested the vast majority of their silverware across its 105-year existence.
Whereas the Blues had only won a single English top-flight trophy before Abramovich's takeover in 2003, they have gone on to win five Premier League titles under his heavy-spending regime.
The men's team has also won five FA Cups, three League Cups, two Champions League titles, two Europa League crowns as well as the UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup during his ownership.
Chelsea officially for sale (Football Terrace)
Chelsea fans will now have to wait and see who replaces Abramovich at the helm with Hansjörg Wyss having emerged as one of the names tipped as an early contender.