Former Chelsea chairman Ken Bates has died at the age of 94, the club announced on Saturday.
Bates was chairman of the club between 1982 and 2003, during which time Chelsea were promoted to the top flight, won two FA Cups, a League Cup, a UEFA Cup Winners' Cup, a UEFA Super Cup and a Community Shield.
He sold his stake in the club to Roman Abramovich and later bought a stake in Leeds United.
"It is with great sadness that we share the news of the loss of Ken Bates, former owner and chairman of Chelsea Football Club," the club said in a statement.
"The club sends our heartfelt condolences to Ken's wife Suzannah, the rest of his family and his friends.
"Ken's determination to fight for Chelsea when times were tough, and drive the team on to winning trophies will never be forgotten."
Bates, who was born in west London, had previously been chairman of Oldham and co-owner of Wigan Athletic before purchasing Chelsea for £1 in 1982.
He was instrumental in ensuring the club remained at Stamford Bridge, redeveloping the stadium dramatically during his time in charge.
- South Africa midfielder Jayden Adams dies aged 25, weeks after World Cup appearance
Bates also held roles with the Football League and was appointed chairman of Wembley National Stadium as the FA attempted to rebuild Wembley in 1997. He eventually resigned from both roles.
He sold Leeds in 2013 having spent eight years as owner of the Yorkshire club and retired to Monaco, where he passed away on Saturday morning, Chelsea said.
Information from PA was used in this report.