Roman Abramovich: Charity Commission 'seeks information' from Chelsea

The Charity Commission says it is "seeking information" from Chelsea after the club was placed under the control of its charitable foundation.

On Saturday Chelsea's Russian owner Roman Abramovich announced he was handing trustees of the foundation "the stewardship and care" of the club.

The billionaire, who would remain the club's owner, made the move amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The Charity Commission says it has received a report from the foundation.

"We have contacted the charity seeking information and, in line with our guidance, the charity has also made a report to the Commission," the Commission said.

Abramovich is one of Russia's richest people and is believed to be close to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

'Calm in the centre of a storm' - Tuchel

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel said his day-to-day role has not been impacted by the off-field changes.

Asked if Abramovich's ownership of the club is a problem, Tuchel said: "It's a bit too much for me to answer. I am not aware of the details and I'm not aware of the whole situation.

"We all agree that there are situations much more important than football and this will never change. Situations like war are of course so much more important, but the role of Mr Abramovich is not for me to comment on because we don't know enough about it."

Asked if he had a message for fans over the uncertainty of the club's ownership, Tuchel said: "I'm not sure if I am the person to give messages to the fans. We try to be calm here and we are calm in the centre of a storm and noise around us that we cannot control."

BBC Sport understands Chelsea are not for sale but some of the trustees involved with the foundation have not yet agreed to take charge.

Some have concerns over whether Charity Commission rules would allow them to run the club, while others are concerned about their legal liability if they agree to take on the responsibility

The Chelsea Foundation runs the club's community and education departments as well as other charitable activities. Its chairman is US lawyer Bruce Buck, who is also chairman of the club.

The foundation's other trustees are Chelsea women's team manager Emma Hayes, the club's director of finance Paul Ramos, British Olympic Association chair Sir Hugh Robertson, Fare (Football Against Racism in Europe) chief Piara Powar and lawyer John Devine.