LONDON (AP) – The British government will allow Chelsea to sell some tickets again after easing the terms of its sanctioning licence, ensuring the Champions League quarterfinal against Real Madrid is not played at an empty Stamford Bridge while denying the club the ability to gain financially.
The reigning European and world champions had been banned from selling tickets after owner Roman Abramovich was sanctioned. The oligarch’s assets were frozen but the government has now allowed GBP30 million (USD40 million) to be released from Chelsea’s parent company, Fordstam, for the club to meet it costs.
It equates to about a month’s wages. Chelsea has been granted a licence to continue operating as a club but with strict limitations.
The updated licence allows the sale of tickets to all home fans for the visit of Madrid for the Champions League first leg. Chelsea cannot sell new tickets for home Premier League games to its fans – only existing season ticket holders can attend – but away fans can now buy tickets. Chelsea supporters will be able to purchase tickets for away games.
The Premier League said it would collect all ticket proceeds that, in agreement with Chelsea, “will be donated to charity to benefit victims of the war in Ukraine”.
