Ricketts Family unveil eight-point plan in bid to calm Chelsea fans’ anger

Callum Boyle

Chelsea supporters are strongly opposed to the Ricketts family’s bid

The Ricketts family have unveiled an eight-point plan to Chelsea fans, outlining their vision for the club, should a bid to become the European champions’ new owners prove successful.

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Chelsea fans protested against the Ricketts family’s bid on Saturday

Fans of the west London side are strongly opposed to any bids from the Ricketts Family and even protested against the idea ahead of their 4-1 defeat to Brentford on Saturday.

Chelsea fans’ concerns come after the head of the family, Joe Ricketts, was forced to apologise after a leaked email from 2019 was discovered, in which he wrote “Muslims are my enemy.”

The email sparked a huge wave of opposition to the Ricketts’ prospective bids however in an attempt to win over supporters, the family have outlined their vision for the club.

Within the eight points, the family vow to never join any breakaway European Super League as well as interfere with anything at the club ranging from badge to kit colours without consulting the fanbase.

The eight-point plan

A statement from the family said: “Over the past fortnight, the Ricketts Family has met with several Chelsea supporter groups and carefully listened to all their feedback.

“As we enter the next phase of the process, we are sharing a list of specific commitments that give fans a pivotal role in protecting Chelsea’s heritage and building for future success.

“We will continue to discuss our ambitions for the club with fans and the wider football community in the coming days.

“We will:

“1. Make no change to the club’s name, badge and crest, or Chelsea blue, without the consent of supporters.

“2. Never participate in a European Super League and always protect the integrity and heritage of Chelsea F.C.

“3. Commit the resources necessary across all levels of the club to continue winning trophies, including investing in the first team, experienced football leadership and the academy.

“4. Put diversity and inclusion at the heart of the club and fight against any form of discrimination or inequality.

“5. Create an Advisory Committee with diverse representation to ensure our decisions are informed by: a former men’s and women’s first team player, members of the CST and Chelsea Pitch Owners, and influential community leaders.

“6. Explore every option to redevelop Stamford Bridge and do everything in our power to keep playing in this historic stadium.

“7. Match the current commitment to Chelsea F.C. Women and increase the number of women’s matches played at Stamford Bridge.

“8. Continue the vital charitable work of the Chelsea Foundation, seeking to use the power of football and sport to motivate, educate and inspire.”

The family are expected to fly into the UK next week to continue discussions with the club on their bid, as well as other prospective buyers.

The Ricketts family has vowed never to join a European Super League in an eight-point pledge for Chelsea's future including commitments on diversity, investment, club colours, crest and Stamford Bridge #ChelseaFC #CFC pic.twitter.com/StuoUOTDoh

— Nick Purewal (@NickPurewal) April 3, 2022