The UK government has imposed a travel ban and asset freezes on seven additional rich Russians, including Roman Abramovich, the owner of Chelsea Football Club.
The government disclosed that Abramovich’s assets — including Chelsea Football Club — had been frozen.
Also, Abramovich has been banned from visiting the UK and is prohibited from transactions with UK individuals and businesses.
The government said it would allow Chelsea to continue playing matches despite the sanctions being imposed.
Abramovich had put the club up for sale, but under the asset freeze, that process must be put on hold.
Sports Minister Nadine Dorries said the government had issued a special licence to allow Chelsea to play fixtures, pay staff and allow their current season ticket holders to attend matches.
Dorries said this was so the sanctions would not harm the reigning European and club world champions.
She tweeted: “I know this brings some uncertainty, but the government will work with the league and clubs to keep football being played while ensuring sanctions hit those intended.”
However, the club will not be able to sell any other matchday tickets for their 41,837-capacity stadium.
The government said the licence would be kept under review.
According to reports, the Premier League was informed about the measures just 15 minutes before the announcement.
