Former Chelsea and Leeds United Owner Ken Bates Dies at 94

Former Chelsea and Leeds United owner Ken Bates has died at the age of 94.

Chelsea announced the news on Saturday, stating that Bates “passed away peacefully in Monaco this morning surrounded by his wife and family.”

Bates purchased Chelsea for £1 in 1982 while the team competed in the old Second Division. He took on £1.5m in debt at the time and began efforts to turn the club’s fortunes around.

He eventually sold the club to Roman Abramovich in 2003 for £140m after the team reached the English top flight.

Although the Stamford Bridge club faced significant debt when Bates sold his shares, he remained as chairman before stepping down in 2004.

In an official statement, Chelsea said: “It is with great sadness that we share the news of the loss of Ken Bates, former owner and chairman of Chelsea Football Club. 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.”

During his tenure, Bates employed several managers, including John Neal, John Hollins, Bobby Campbell, Ian Porterfield, and David Webb. He later appointed Glenn Hoddle, Ruud Gullit, Gianluca Vialli, and Claudio Ranieri.

Under Gullit’s leadership, Chelsea secured the FA Cup in 1997, ending the club’s 26-year wait for a major trophy.