The event, the second of its kind staged at the Bridge, was held in the Canoville Suite and was a celebration of the Jewish faith and its role in football, as well as an opportunity to raise funds for the Chelsea Players’ Trust and collect gifts for The Magic of Blue Christmas campaign.

Former Chelsea footballer Gary Chivers was in attendance, representing the Players’ Trust which supports the welfare of those who made the club what it is today.

The evening was introduced by Stephen Nelken, co-chair of the Jewish Supporters’ Group, and began by acknowledging the recent tragic events in Sydney, with the club reaffirming that our thoughts are with everyone affected.

Alice Braybrook, the Chelsea Foundation’s head of grants and charitable partnerships, addressed the event and said afterwards: 'It was a privilege to join the Chelsea Jewish Supporters' Group for their Chanukah celebrations at Stamford Bridge. Through their generosity, the group raised over £1,000 for the Chelsea Players’ Trust and donated more than 100 gifts to support the Magic of Blue campaign. We’re looking forward to continuing to work together - alongside other supporters’ groups - to make a positive impact across our local communities.'

Stephen then continued by echoing this sentiment of generosity, ‘I would like to thank Chelsea Football Club and Chelsea Foundation for their support in arranging such an enjoyable evening and allowing us to raise funds for the Players’ Trust and gifts for The Magic of Blue campaign.

‘Faith and football both play such important roles in our lives and it is so meaningful to us that we can celebrate Chanukah in the wonderful setting of Stamford Bridge.’

Rabbi Brendan Stern was then invited to speak, highlighting the importance of light and hope during the time of Chanukah celebration, before lighting the menorah and leading attendees in the singing of traditional Jewish songs. Customary food and drink was also served.

Stephen then shared his final thoughts, adding: ‘We look forward to working with the club and Foundation in the future and are already eagerly anticipating our 2026 event.’

The Jewish Supporters’ Group was launched in 2023 with the aim of bringing supporters together to celebrate Jewish culture and identity. It works closely with the club on initiatives and campaigns to help ensure Chelsea FC is a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone.

• Click for more information on our Jewish Supporters’ Group and a form to apply to join

The group is part of the club’s wider ED&I work, which has included a recent football tournament involving the Muslim Supporters’ Group, plus there are events planned with Chelsea Pride and others.