Ricketts family abandons bid for Chelsea

The Ricketts family has announced it will not lodge a final bid to buy Chelsea, leaving three bidders left standing in the takeover process.

The three bidders standing are LA Dodgers part-owner Todd Boehly, Sir Martin Broughton and Steve Pagliuca.

The American family, who owns Major League Baseball team Chicago Cubs, has been a frontrunner in purchasing the Premier League outfit, after Roman Abramovich announced his intention to sell, as he became embroiled in Russia’s war in Ukraine.

But Islamophobic emails from Joe Ricketts, the 80-year-old head of the family, surfaced and led to protests from the Chelsea fans. The Chelsea Supporters’ Trust had insisted any new owner had to support inclusion and diversity and it became clear the divide was an issue.

A statement from the family published today, reads: “The Ricketts-Griffin-Gilbert Group has decided, after careful consideration, not to submit a final bid for Chelsea F.C. In the process of finalising their proposal, it became increasingly clear that certain issues could not be addressed given the unusual dynamics around the sales process.

“We have great admiration for Chelsea and its fans, and we wish the new owners well.”

Chelsea head coach Thomas Tuchel was asked about the ownership situation on Friday morning and whether he had an update following Thursday’s deadline for bids.

Tuchel replied: “To be honest, no.

“It is still a process. I heard talks are still ongoing with the government.

“I am still not involved, which I am glad about, I have to say, because we have a lot to focus on here.

“This is where our focus goes. Like I said with the first answer, I hope things will be sorted out as soon as possible to have clarity, but I understand it is not that easy.”