Chelsea and other top-flight football clubs have claimed millions of pounds in tax relief under a research and development (R&D) tax scheme intended to support advancements in science and technology. However, questions are being raised over the validity of these claims, with HMRC facing criticism for inadequate oversight.
An investigation by The Times has revealed that 28 sports teams across football, rugby, and cricket have claimed £13 million under the R&D tax relief scheme since 2019. This scheme is meant to support companies making genuine scientific or technological advancements that benefit the broader industry—not just their own business.
Chelsea alone claimed over £2 million from 2020 to 2023, but when asked to justify their claims, the club refused to comment. Other clubs, including Nottingham Forest (£607,000) and Harlequins (£1.3 million), have also benefited from the scheme.
HMRC has been widely criticised for its handling of R&D tax relief, with the cost of the programme ballooning from £1.1 billion in 2010 to £7.5 billion in 2023. An estimated £4.1 billion in fraud and error losses have been recorded since 2020, raising concerns over whether clubs’ claims have been properly vetted.
With millions at stake, this issue could spark further financial and reputational risks for Chelsea and other clubs involved.
