Ken Bates dies as fans pay classy tribute to ex-Chelsea and Leeds boss | Football | Sport

Ken Bates, the former owner of both Chelsea and Leeds United, has passed away at the age of 94. Chelsea confirmed the news on Saturday.

“It is with great sadness that we share the news of the loss of Ken Bates, former owner and chairman of Chelsea Football Club,” a statement read.

“The club sends our heartfelt condolences to Ken’s wife Suzannah, the rest of his family and his friends. Ken’s determination to fight for Chelsea when times were tough, and drive the team on to winning trophies will never be forgotten.”

The Chelsea Supporters’ Trust also released a statement which read: “The Chelsea Supporters’ Trust is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Chelsea owner and chairman, Ken Bates. Ken was one of the most significant figures in Chelsea Football Club’s modern history.

“Taking charge during one of the club’s most difficult periods, he played a defining role in securing the club’s future at Stamford Bridge and helping 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 is assured.

“The thoughts of the CST board and all our members around the globe are with Ken’s family, friends and all those who knew him. Thank You, Ken.”

Bates famoulsy bought Chelsea for just £1 in 1982 and would sell the club for £140 million to previous owner Roman Abramovich almost 30 years later.

Following his departure from Chelsea, Bates took on 50 per cent of Leeds in 2005 before selling the club to Bahrain-based GFH Financial Group in 2012.

Bates was also involved in the process to build the new Wembley Stadium, which opened in 2007, while he also held a controlling interest in Partick Thistle in the 1980s.

Bates was appointed chairman of the the company that oversaw the development of the new Wembley in 1997 but resigned in 2001.

He was adamant that the FA must not sell the national stadium, speaking out in 2018 amid rumours Fulham owner Shahid Khan could buy the ground.

“They have no moral authority to sell it as it doesn’t belong to them,” he said. “The directors of the FA are just passing through, they are the trustees. How dare they even consider selling it. The FA never had a proper home until we got Wembley.”