Former Chelsea and Leeds owner Ken Bates dies aged 94
Ken Bates, the former owner of Chelsea and Leeds United football clubs, has passed away at the age of 94. He is remembered for his long tenure at Chelsea, which included selling the club to Roman Abramovich in 2003.
Why it matters
Bates was a significant figure in English football history, overseeing major transitions in club ownership and management.
Published 9 minutes ago Former Chelsea and Leeds United owner Ken Bates has died at the age of 94.
Chelsea announced the death of Bates on Saturday, saying he had "passed away peacefully in Monaco this morning surrounded by his wife and family".
Bates bought Chelsea for £1 in 1982 when they were in the old Second Division, taking on debts of £1.5m, and set about turning around their fortunes.
He eventually sold the club to Roman Abramovich in 2003 in a deal worth £140m when they were in the English top flight.
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