Roman Abramovich, the billionaire businessman with dual Israeli and Russian citizenship, has long held a prominent place in the global elite. Known for his sharp business acumen, unmatched luxury lifestyle, and historic ownership of Chelsea Football Club, he has crafted a fortune that places him among the wealthiest individuals in Europe. As of 2025, Roman Abramovich’s net worth is estimated at $13 billion, a figure reflecting his vast investments across oil, real estate, yachts, art, and aviation.
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Born on October 24, 1966, in Saratov, Soviet Union, Roman Arkadyevich Abramovich experienced loss early in life. Orphaned by the age of four, he was raised by relatives. He began his entrepreneurial journey selling everyday goods during the Soviet Union’s transition toward capitalism. His earliest profits came from simple items like tires and rubber ducks, but his ambitions quickly outgrew the street stalls.
Rise to Wealth and Political Power
Abramovich’s financial breakthrough came in the mid-1990s, during Russia’s rapid privatization of state-owned assets. In 1995, he acquired a controlling stake in Sibneft, a major Russian oil company, for a fraction of its value. This move laid the foundation for his future billions. He later expanded into steel production, leveraging close ties with key Russian political figures to grow his industrial influence.
Beyond business, Abramovich served as governor of Chukotka, a remote federal district in Russia, from 2000 to 2008. During his tenure, he reportedly donated over $2.5 billion to the region for development projects including schools, hospitals, and infrastructure—earning him the reputation as one of Russia’s most philanthropic oligarchs.
The Chelsea F.C. Era and Sporting Legacy
In 2003, Roman Abramovich purchased Chelsea Football Club for approximately $250 million. At the time, Chelsea was a mid-table team in the English Premier League. Under Abramovich’s ownership, the club transformed into one of Europe’s footballing giants. He spent billions on player acquisitions, facilities, and managers, resulting in multiple Premier League titles, Champions League wins, and domestic cup triumphs.
In February 2022, amidst increasing political pressure due to Russia’s conflict with Ukraine, Abramovich announced he would transfer ownership of the club to a charitable trust. By April 2022, Chelsea was sold to British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe for $5.3 billion. While $3.2 billion was donated to the club’s charitable trust, $2.1 billion was pledged for future investment.
Art and Collectibles
Abramovich is also known for his world-class art collection, some of which is worth tens of millions. In 2008, he bought a Francis Bacon painting for $86.3 million and a Lucian Freud piece for $33.6 million. These acquisitions cemented his status among global art collectors.
Yachts Worth Hundreds of Millions
Roman’s reputation for luxury extends to his legendary yacht collection, led by the Eclipse, a $400 million floating palace. At one point the largest private yacht in the world, it features two helipads, two pools, a mini-submarine, and a missile defense system.
His previous yachts include:
- Luna – Sold for $360 million
- Pelorus – Given to his ex-wife in a divorce settlement and later sold for $300 million
Aircraft Collection and Sanction Controversies
Abramovich’s air fleet includes some of the most expensive private jets in the world. His Boeing 767-33A/ER, nicknamed “The Bandit”, is equipped with a 30-person dining room and military-grade missile avoidance systems.
In June 2022, the FBI sought seizure of his Gulfstream and Boeing 787 Dreamliner, both allegedly flown in violation of U.S. sanctions following the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The combined value of the aircraft was estimated at $400 million.
Multi-Million Dollar Car Collection
Roman’s car garage is no less impressive. With an estimated value over $11 million, his collection includes:
- Ferrari FFX – One of only 29 ever made
- Pagani Zonda Roadster – Limited to 15 units globally
- Bugatti Veyron
- Mercedes AMG GT3
- Aston Martin Vulcan
Each vehicle in his lineup is rare, high-performing, and customized to match his refined tastes.
Global Real Estate Empire
Abramovich’s real estate portfolio is worth over £340 million, spanning multiple countries and continents. Some of his most notable properties include:
- Four adjoining townhouses on New York’s Upper East Side, acquired for $74 million, with a planned $100 million renovation to create an “urban castle”
- A £125 million mansion in Kensington Palace Gardens, London’s most exclusive street
- A £30 million Chelsea waterfront penthouse
- A 17 million pound hotel on the French Riviera, formerly used by royalty
- A $65 million Israeli estate, which set a national real estate record in 2020
- A 54 million pound estate in St. Bart’s, and a $18 million ski ranch in Colorado
- A hotel in Tel Aviv, purchased for $17 million from actress Gal Gadot and her husband
He also once attempted to purchase an entire ski town in the U.S. before settling for part of a slope near his ranch.
Life Today and Legacy
Now 58 years old, Roman Abramovich keeps a low public profile following the sale of Chelsea and increased geopolitical scrutiny. Despite legal challenges and international sanctions, his business empire and personal wealth remain largely intact.
Known as a controversial but charitable oligarch, Abramovich’s name is tied to some of the biggest business deals and philanthropic donations in modern Russian history. His impact on football, luxury culture, and Eastern European business is undeniable.
Whether sailing the seas on a superyacht, flying in retrofitted airliners, or reshaping a football club’s legacy, Roman Abramovich remains one of the most fascinating billionaires in the world.