Tributes have been paid to the former Arsenal chairman, Sir Chips Keswick, whose passing at the age of 84 the club confirmed today.
A lifelong supporter of Arsenal, Sir Chips joined the club’s board in 2005, taking over from his good friend Sir Peter Hill-Wood eight years later.
Sir Chips "proved himself to be a clear-thinking, popular and influential presence in the boardroom, and when Peter Hill-Wood stepped down as Chairman in June 2013, Sir Chips was the natural choice to take up the prestigious position," the club said in their tribute.
Everyone at the Club is deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Sir Chips Keswick.
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) April 19, 2024
Sir Chips' time at Arsenal spanned 15 years in which he served as both a board member and Chairman.
May he rest in peace ❤️
During his seven years as chairman, he oversaw Arsenal’s regular participation in the UEFA Champions League and the FA Cup victories of 2017 and 2020.
Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters also paid tribute to Sir Chips.
“As well as his contribution to Arsenal, Chips will be remembered fondly as a true gentleman with great wit, someone who always had the best interests of the game in mind,” Masters said. “He will be missed by his many friends within the game.”
The Premier League extends its deepest sympathies to Sir Chips’ family and friends and everyone at Arsenal.