Chelsea can now sell tickets but won't benefit from proceeds - UK Govt

 

The UK government has relaxed some rules around the sanctioning placed on Chelsea football club, they can now sell tickets but they won't benefit from the proceeds. (Photo credit: Chelsea FC)

Chelsea fans can heave a sigh of relief albeit tentatively as the UK governing body amends their operating license following the sanctions placed on their erstwhile owner, Roman Abramovich in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

The Blues were suspended from every commercial activity which included selling of tickets and merchandizes, signing of players or even renewal of contracts and it was going to be a no-fans affair when Real Madrid visit the Stamford Bridge in a fortnight but that rule has now been amended.

Chelsea have been granted a license to continue operating as a club but with strict limitations on its commercial ventures. However, an updated government document shows the terms of the license now allows Champions League tickets to be sold again.

Chelsea host Madrid in the first leg of the quarterfinals in April. They will be able to sell tickets but the club will not collect a dime from the proceeds as it will go to UEFA. For league games, only season ticket holders will be able to watch games at the stadium as they cannot sell new tickets.

FA Cup affairs at Wembley would see all tickets proceeds go to the FA and same would happen should they get past Crystal Palace in the Semifinal to book a place in the final.

The government's updated license states that Chelsea have to transfer the proceeds from ticket sales "to a permitted third party." Charities could benefit from the ticket income.

"I would like to thank fans for their patience while we have engaged with the football authorities to make this possible," British Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston said. "Since Roman Abramovich was added to the U.K.'s sanctions list for his links to Vladimir Putin we have worked extensively to ensure the club can continue to play football while ensuring the sanctions regime continues to be enforced."