Former Arsenal Chairman Sir Chips Keswick Has Passed Away At The Age Of 84.
Arsenal has confirmed the passing of former chairman Sir Chips Keswick at the age of 84. A merchant banker educated at Eton, Keswick shared a deep affinity for the Gunners with his predecessor, Peter Hill-Wood.
Joining the Arsenal board in 2005, Keswick played a pivotal role in the club’s transition from Highbury to the Emirates Stadium within his first year on the board. He assumed the position of club chairman in 2013 following Hill-Wood’s departure, overseeing three FA Cup triumphs during his tenure as Bank of England director.
Keswick stepped down from his role as chairman in May 2020, prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, Stan Kroenke and Josh Kroenke have jointly served as Arsenal’s chairmen.
Everyone at the Club is deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Sir Chips Keswick.
Sir Chips' time at Arsenal spanned 15 years in which he served as both a board member and Chairman.
May he rest in peace ❤️
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) April 19, 2024
“It is with deep sorrow that the club announces the passing of former Chairman, Sir Chips Keswick,” Arsenal stated in a tribute. “A devoted Arsenal supporter, he frequented Highbury regularly since his first attendance in the boys’ enclosure in 1949, recalling his early heroes as the Compton brothers, Jimmy Logie, and above all, goalkeeper – later manager – George Swindin, as young Chips aspired to become a goalkeeper himself.
“Sir Chips exemplified the values of Arsenal Football Club throughout his life and provided astute leadership for seven seasons, stepping down in May 2020, shortly after his 80th birthday.
“During his tenure as Chairman, he oversaw the club’s consistent participation in the UEFA Champions League and celebrated FA Cup triumphs in 2017 and 2020, the latter marking a fitting conclusion to his immensely positive association with the club.
“Retirement afforded him more time with his cherished family and allowed him to indulge in his other passion, horse racing – where he earned respect as the owner of several racehorses over the years.
“Sir Chips will be deeply missed by all at Arsenal who had the privilege of knowing him, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife Lady Sarah and their children David, Tobias, and Adam.”
Arsenal currently hold the second position in the Premier League standings and have the opportunity to claim the top spot by defeating Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday night.
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