Chelsea have confirmed that they will hold discussions with the UK government over restrictions now in place following confirmation that owner Roman Abramovich has been placed under strict sanctions.
Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine a fortnight ago, the UK government has been clamping down on wealthy Russians who have assets within the UK. So far, more than 200 different individuals and businesses have been sanctioned.
Under the constraints placed on Abramovich, Chelsea are now banned from selling tickets and merchandise, offering new contracts to players and staff, signing and selling players and must not exceed a £20,000 budget for travelling to and from fixtures. But as the sanctions are not directly placed on Chelsea, they are allowed to continue operating and play fixtures, albeit around said restrictions.
READ MORE: Roman Abramovich sanctions: What Chelsea FC restrictions mean for Manchester United and Man City
That means that Thursday night's Premier League game against Norwich City and the women's team's clash with West Ham United can go ahead. However, the club has announced that it plans to hold discussions with the government to learn more about the scope of the license now in place.
A statement released by Chelsea read : "Chelsea Football Club has been advised that its owner Roman Abramovich has been sanctioned by the UK Government.
"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.
"We will fulfil our men’s and women’s team fixtures today against Norwich and West Ham, respectively, and intend to engage in discussions with the UK Government regarding the scope of the licence. This will include seeking permission for the licence to be amended in order to allow the Club to operate as normal as possible.
"We will also be seeking guidance from the UK Government on the impact of these measures on the Chelsea Foundation and its important work in our communities. The club will update further when it is appropriate."
As things stand, the sanctions that have been imposed will remain in place until May 31.
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