While we are currently in the midst of an international break, Chelsea have received a huge boost for the remainder of their club football season. The Premier League giants had been cast into chaos after owner Roman Abramovich was sanctioned by the UK government due to his alleged ties with Russian president Vladimir Putin, but one crucial restriction placed on the London side has been eased.
Initially, in a move to prevent the Russian oligarch from profiting off of the Blues, the UEFA Champions League holders were prohibited from selling tickets and merchandise, with only season ticket holders being permitted to attend matches.
However, this presented them with a few problems. Number one, Tuchel's men would not have been able to play in front of a full crowd at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League as not every seat is occupied by a season ticket holder. Secondly, and more importantly, it would have left Chelsea without fans for UEFA Champions League and FA Cup games as tickets to those two competitions are sold separately.
And with Havertz and Co. taking on Real Madrid in the quarterfinals in Europe's premier club competition, the club feared having to travel to Santiago Bernabeu without away supporters and having to stage the home leg at the Bridge behind closed doors. Fortunately for Chelsea, they have now been handed a lifeline by the UK government.
The champions of Europe will be permitted to sell tickets for their quarterfinal showdown with Los Blancos, as well as every other fixture involving both the men's and women's team bar home games in the English top-flight. Away tickets for Premier League fixtures will be available, however.
Chelsea fans will be able to purchase tickets for away PL fixtures, UCL and FA Cup games after government updates to the licence. No further home tickets available but away fans can attend Stamford Bridge. Money to go to PL.
— Nizaar Kinsella (@NizaarKinsella) March 23, 2022
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Additionally, fans of other clubs will be permitted to purchase seats at Stamford Bridge. However, all proceeds will go to the Premier League, not the London giants, until the departure of Roman Abramovich is completed.
