Ken Bates dead at 94: Tributes pour in for ex-Chelsea owner who famously bought London club for just £1
Former Chelsea chairman and owner Ken Bates has died at the age of 94.
Bates, who bought the West London football club for just £1 in 1982, passed away peacefully in Monaco on Saturday morning, surrounded by his wife and family.
Chelsea announced the news in a statement: ‘It is with great sadness that we share the news of the death of Ken Bates, former owner and chairman of Chelsea Football Club.
The Club extends our deepest condolences to Ken’s wife Suzannah, the rest of his family and friends.
‘Ken’s determination to fight for Chelsea in difficult times and lead the team to win trophies will never be forgotten.’
Bates became the third longest-serving chairman in Chelsea’s history, holding the position for 22 years.
Former Chelsea chairman and owner Ken Bates dies at the age of 94
Bates bought Chelsea for just £1 and sold the club to Roman Abramovich in 2003.
Bates took charge of Leeds United after they were relegated to the Championship in 2005.
He led the Blues to the top flight of the Premier League before selling the club to Roman Abramovich in 2003 and taking charge of Leeds in 2005.
Chelsea Supporters’ Trust said in a statement:
The ‘Chelsea Supporters Foundation’ is deeply saddened to learn of the death of former Chelsea owner and chairman Ken Bates.
‘Ken was one of the most important figures in the modern history of Chelsea Football Club. Taking charge of the club during one of its most difficult periods, he played a decisive role in securing the club’s future at Stamford Bridge and helped lay the foundations for the success that followed.
His impact on Chelsea will be remembered for generations and his place in the club’s history will be guaranteed.
‘The thoughts of the CST board and all our members worldwide are with Ken’s family, friends and everyone who knew him.
‘Thank you, Ken.’
More to follow.
