Ricketts family issue response to Chelsea fans following backlash over bid to buy club

Chelsea fans have voiced their concerns about the Ricketts family

The Ricketts family, who are interested in buying Chelsea, have said that they are willing to meet and speak with fans over their concerns about its potential ownership.

Why are Chelsea fans opposed to the Ricketts family?

Fans of the Blues have criticised the family over their ownership of the baseball franchise, the Chicago Cubs, as well as a series of anti-Muslim comments by the head of the family, Joe Ricketts in 2019. Leaked emails showed the patriarch of the family describing Muslims as "my enemy." He later apologised for his comments. "I deeply regret and apologise for some of the exchanges I had in my emails," he said. "Sometimes I received emails that I should have condemned. Other times I’ve said things that don’t reflect my value system. I strongly believe that bigoted ideas are wrong." Although Joe Ricketts isn't part of the bidding process to buy the club from outgoing owner Roman Abramovich, fans of the European champions are still deeply concerned. Joe's son Tom, who is leading the Ricketts bid, distanced himself from his father's comments: "My father is not involved with the operation of the Chicago Cubs in any way."

What was their response?

Chelsea fans have since got the hashtag 'NoToRicketts' trending on Twitter to showcase their disapproval, however the Ricketts family have issued a statement saying that they do not accept any forms of racism or hatred. It said: "Our family rejects any form of hate in the strongest possible terms. Racism and Islamophobia have no place whatsoever in our society. "We have developed deep and abiding partnerships with the Muslim community in Chicago, as well as with all communities of colour. "Respect for diversity and inclusion are central to our family’s values. If we prevail in our bid for Chelsea, we commit to the club and to the fans that we will actively promote these values." https://twitter.com/RobHarris/status/1506524825401110534 The prospective buyers who have submitted offers to buy Chelsea are now awaiting to hear if they have made the official shortlist following last Friday's deadline to submit bids. Related links:

• John Terry confirms he is part of ‘True Blue’ Chelsea consortium bid
• Chelsea Supporters’ Trust reveal positive discussions with prospective buyers
• FA in talks with government over Chelsea fans attending FA Cup semi-final