New Rules Could Force Chelsea to Change Name to Play Premier League Home Games Abroad
Chelsea fans could play a crucial role in preventing Premier League matches from being played outside the UK, thanks to an unusual circumstance linked to former owner Ken Bates.
Recently, FIFA opened the door for domestic matches to be held “outside the grounds” by agreeing to create a working group to set criteria for such events.
Despite assurances from Premier League chiefs that there are no plans to play matches abroad, the increasing US financial backing for many top-flight clubs raises concerns about future possibilities.
However, Chelsea’s dedicated fan base, often the subject of rival fans’ jibes, might become the unexpected saviors of the domestic championship due to a plan devised by Ken Bates in 1993. After a prolonged legal battle for control of Stamford Bridge with developer Marler Estates, Bates established the Chelsea Pitch Owners (CPO).
The CPO scheme involved selling shares in the club’s playing field for £100 each, with a cap of 100 shares per individual. This arrangement allowed Blues fans to hold a small but significant stake in the club’s future. Bates designed this model to prevent private developers from ever taking over Stamford Bridge.
Under the CPO’s ownership, the name Chelsea Football Club Limited was transferred back to the club with the stipulation that all first-team matches would be played at Stamford Bridge.
Moreover, if the club ever relocates to a new stadium, it can only use the Chelsea name with the approval of 75% of CPO shareholders.
This unique setup thwarted former owner Roman Abramovich’s plans in 2011 to reacquire the stadium’s ownership to potentially sell the land and fund a new stadium. Today, it means that even if Premier League clubs decide to play games abroad, the CPO – led by Chelsea legend and former captain John Terry – can block Chelsea from losing a home game.
Thus, Chelsea fans, through their shares in the CPO, have a powerful tool to ensure that the club’s matches remain at Stamford Bridge, preserving the integrity of the domestic league.
New Rules Could Force Chelsea to Change Name to Play Premier League Home Games Abroad
