The government of the United Kingdom has asked fans of Chelsea FC to stop chanting the name of the club’s estranged owner, Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich.
Since the club was stripped off Abramovich due to his ties with Russian President, Vladimir Putin, many fans haven’t stopped chanting the billionaire’s name at games.
James Slack, the spokesman for the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, said on Monday, said the club’s supporters should not allow themselves to be blinded from the connection Abramovich has with Putin.
“We recognize the strength of feeling around people’s clubs, but that doesn’t excuse behaviour which is completely inappropriate at this time,” Slack said.
“I think people can show passion and support for their club without resorting to that sort of stuff.”
He added, “We are open to the sale of the club, we would consider an application for a licence to allow that to happen in the right circumstances.”
“But it’s for Chelsea to determine the exact process. My understanding is potential buyers would approach the club, who would then need to apply for a further amended licence to facilitate the sale.
“As far as I am aware, that has not happened at this point.”
