Ken Bates

Ken Bates was a prominent British football executive and hotelier who left a significant mark on the sports industry. Born in 1931 and passing away at the age of 94 in 2026, he became widely known for his leadership roles in English football. Most notably, Ken Bates served as the chairman of Chelsea F.C. from 1982 to 2003, guiding the club through a crucial era of its modern history. Following his tenure at Stamford Bridge, Ken Bates later took on the role of chairman at Leeds United F.C. from 2005 until 2012. Throughout his career, his extensive involvement with these major clubs cemented his status as a key figure in British football administration. His leadership across decades at the helm of two historic teams forms a lasting legacy in the world of sports management.