Roman Abramovich has sent a letter of support to Chelsea’s players after Reece James was targeted with vile racist abuse.
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich writes to every player for the first time vowing to ‘personally direct more funds’ to anti-racism efforts after being ‘appalled’ by abuse directed at Reece James on social media.
The right-back posted a screenshot of racist messages he had been sent with the caption “something needs to change.”
The club responded to that on Friday by releasing a statement of their own, saying: “Everyone at Chelsea FC is disgusted with the racist abuse Reece James received on social media on Friday evening.
“This club finds racism and all forms of discriminatory behaviour completely unacceptable. We totally condemn it.
Blues owner Abramovich personally responded as well as he vows to fund the club’s message.
In the letter, the Russian owner said: “I am appalled by the racist abuse targeted at Reece on social media. Racism has no place in our club noir in our society.
“Our club is comitted to fighting racism, anti-semitism and all forms of doscrimination. I want you to know that as players you all have my and the club’s absolute support.
“We cannot allow this to continue unchecked. I have therefore directed the board to further increase the club’s efforts in this area and I will personally direct more funds towards this important work.
“We will be setting out our actions as a club in the coming days.”
James was a second half substitute in the Blues’ 2-0 win over Burnley at Stamford Bridge as Thomas Tuchel secured his first win as Chelsea head coach.
