Chelsea have released a statement condemning the situation in Ukraine following Russia's invasion.
The club's Russian owner Roman Abramovich decided on Saturday evening to award the "stewardship and care of Chelsea FC" to the trustees of the club's charitable foundation.
The club stated on their website: "The situation in Ukraine is horrific and devastating. Chelsea FC’s thoughts are with everyone in Ukraine. Everyone at the club is praying for peace."
Abramovich said in his own statement on Saturday that he was relinquishing decision-making powers at the club in a bid to protect it from the reputational damage following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
The Blues came in for criticism on Saturday evening when the statement released made no mention of the invasion in Eastern Europe.
Abramovich's name has been mentioned given his past links to Russian President Vladimir Putin with many calling for the businessman to be included in sanctions handed out by the UK Government.
In that statement, the Chelsea owner wrote: "During my nearly 20-year ownership of Chelsea FC, I have always viewed my role as a custodian of the Club, whose job it is ensuring that we are as successful as we can be today, as well as build for the future, while also playing a positive role in our communities.
"I have always taken decisions with the Club’s best interest at heart. I remain committed to these values. That is why I am today giving trustees of Chelsea’s charitable Foundation the stewardship and care of Chelsea FC.
"I believe that currently they are in the best position to look after the interests of the Club, players, staff, and fans."
However, the club are yet to clarify what this will actually mean for the structure and running of the club.
The news has come as Thomas Tuchel prepares his side to face Liverpool in the final of the Carabao Cup on Sunday.
A win against the Reds would hand the German his fourth title since taking the reins at Stamford Bridge having already secured the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup already.
