Chelsea Co-Owners in Dispute as Boehly and Clearlake Capital Seek Full Control of Club

Chelsea’s ownership is in the midst of a significant power struggle, as co-owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital both look to take full control of the club amid increasing tension at the board level. Despite being named co-controlling owner after the £2.5 billion purchase from Roman Abramovich in July 2022, Boehly has seen his influence diminish, with Clearlake, the majority stakeholder with a 61.5% share, now holding primary authority at Stamford Bridge.

Since stepping down as interim sporting director in January 2023, Boehly has been overshadowed by Behdad Eghbali, Clearlake’s co-founder, who has become the most hands-on figure in the club’s operations. The ownership is now split into two main factions: Clearlake, and a group aligned with Boehly, which includes billionaire partners Hansjorg Wyss and Mark Walter, holding the remaining 38.5%.

Though sources previously denied any rift, it is now widely acknowledged by senior figures that a divide exists between the two groups. Both Boehly and Clearlake Capital are reportedly unwilling to sell their stakes, but both sides are actively seeking to buy the other out, with a desire to resolve the situation swiftly.

The turmoil at the top may be affecting some aspects of the club’s operations, particularly the delayed progress on redeveloping or moving Stamford Bridge. Meanwhile, Chelsea has spent over £1 billion on new signings since the 2022 takeover, leading to criticism for hoarding players, though the squad size has been reduced from 42 to 36.