Chelsea

Chelsea not in talks over new London stadium site

Published

10 months ago

November 16, 2023

Where could Chelsea build a new stadium? Blues not in talks over Earls Court Exhibition Centre site with Stamford Bridge future uncertain

Chelsea are not in talks to buy the former Earls Court Exhibition Centre site despite reports claiming they hoped to relocate from Stamford Bridge.

The Athletic reports that the Blues have not entered into any negotiations over the old Earls Court Exhibition Centre site, despite it being frequently touted as the best possible option for the club were they to leave Stamford Bridge. The Earls Court Development Company (ECDC) denied that Chelsea would be able to buy the site in March.

Chelsea’s future at Stamford Bridge remains somewhat uncertain. There have been suggestions that Clearlake Capital, fronted by Todd Boehly, could decide to redevelop their current home at great expense, although the Blues would need to ground-share with Fulham at Craven Cottage or elsewhere to facilitate the building work.

There is also the potential that they simply build a new stadium at a fresh site, and continue playing at Stamford Bridge while that work was completed, but such a move would need to be voted through by 75 percent of the 14,000 members of the Chelsea Pitch Owners organisation.

The ECDC issued a statement, reading: “We categorically deny that there are any talks taking place with Chelsea FC about a stadium relocation to the Earls Court site.

“After years of consultation with the local community, we have updated our masterplan proposals and today release updated plans.“Our scheme will deliver 4,000 homes, space for 12,000 jobs, acres of public space and cultural venues, restaurants and community facilities.

“There is no football stadium in the Earls Court masterplan.”

The club will return to Premier League action on November 25 at St James’ Park against Newcastle. They will next play at Stamford Bridge on December 3, against Brighton.