Football: Chelsea future secured
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.CHELSEA'S future at Stamford Bridge was assured last night after the Royal Bank of Scotland bought the west London stadium. Chelsea now have a 20-year lease on the ground and an option to buy.
The move came as a relief to the Chelsea chairman, Ken Bates, who said: 'I am delighted and very appreciative of the totally supportive role taken by the Royal Bank of Scotland, who have been instrumental in keeping Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.'
He added: 'It's got to be the best Christmas present that anyone's ever had, and Chelsea fans everywhere have every reason to celebrate their good fortune.'
The bank refused to reveal the amount paid to the previous owners, Cabra Estates, but has told Bates that Chelsea do not have to pay any part of the purchase price for up to 20 years.
John Mayes, a spokesman for the bank, said it took over the ownership of the ground when Cabra Estates fell into financial difficulties. Shares in the property company were suspended on the Stock Exchange last month.
'We have been in negotiations with the receivers and Chelsea for some time to establish a system acceptable to ourselves and also to Chelsea,' he said. 'We are delighted that it enables the football club to stay at Stamford Bridge, but our attitude had to be that it was also a deal suitable to us from a business point of view.
'We will receive income on the property, while Chelsea have an agreement whereby they can purchase the ground and enable us to realise our asset.'
Gordon Taylor, the chief executive of the Professional Footballers' Association, will fight on behalf of Gordon Durie today when the Tottenham striker appeals against a Football Association verdict that he feigned injury during his side's fixture with Coventry in August.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments