Usmanov’s company USM holdings sponsor Everton’s training ground
The Russian billionaire Alisher Usmanov – who holds commercial ties in Everton – has had all his assets frozen by the European Union as a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
As per The Mirror, Usmanov’s company USM Holdings sponsor the Toffees’ training ground and also have exclusive naming-rights to Everton’s new stadium.
Usmanov, who was a former shareholder in Arsenal until 2018, has now seen restrictions imposed on him which include a “prohibition from making funds available” as well as an EU travel ban.
An EU council member announced the decision, explaining: “Alisher Usmanov is a pro-Kremlin oligarch with particularly close ties to Russian president Vladimir Putin.”
The council also claimed that Usmanov “actively supported materially or financially Russian decision-makers responsible for the annexation of Crimea and the destabilisation of Ukraine.”
It follows after Chelsea’s Russian owner Roman Abramovich has stepped back from his role at the club and handed over the “stewardship and care” to the club’s trustees last weekend.
Despite this there are still doubts around Abramovich- with many criticising Chelsea’s 24-word statement that failed to acknowledge the invasion of Ukraine – instead calling it a “conflict.”
However a spokesperson for the Chelsea owner has said that Abramovich is now playing a pivotal part in the peace talks in order to bring the war to an end.
They said: “I can confirm that Roman Abramovich was contacted by the Ukrainian side for support in achieving a peaceful resolution, and that he has been trying to help ever since.
“Considering what is at stake, we would ask for your understanding as to why we have not commented on neither the situation as such nor his involvement. Thank you.”
Related links:
- Chelsea trustees consider resigning following Roman Abramovich statement
- Lawyer explains why Roman Abramovich statement is nothing but PR spin
- Gary Neville slams ‘cowardly’ Roman Abramovich for Chelsea statement
