Ken Bates, Former Chelsea Chairman, Dies at 94

Ken Bates, the former chairman of Chelsea FC, passed away on Saturday at the age of 94. Bates acquired Chelsea in 1982 when the club was in dire financial straits and played a crucial role in its revival, leading the team to promotion and winning two FA Cups, a League Cup, and other titles during his tenure until 2003.

He oversaw major redevelopment projects at Stamford Bridge, ensuring the club's continued success. After selling Chelsea to Roman Abramovich in 2003, Bates purchased Leeds United in 2004, where he spent eight years before selling the club in 2013.

Bates was also a former football league official. Chelsea FC announced his passing in a statement expressing sadness and extending condolences to his wife, Suzzannah, and family.