Barbara Charone attended the Chelsea Women’s Champions League semi-final first leg against Barcelona, marking one of the few times in 40 years that she won’t be at a men’s Blues game at Wembley Stadium. Charone, a PR mogul and renowned music critic, joined Chelsea’s board of directors in 2022 and later became a trustee of the Chelsea foundation. Despite her longstanding attendance at Stamford Bridge, Charone’s presence in Spain for the women’s clash signifies her commitment to breaking barriers in male-dominated industries.
Emma Hayes’ Chelsea side is aiming to secure their first-ever women’s European title by defeating Barcelona, the team that knocked them out at the same stage last season and beat them in the 2021 final. With the support of Charone in the stands, Chelsea is determined to claim the only piece of silverware that has eluded Hayes in her successful coaching career at the club. This match against Barcelona represents a challenging obstacle in their quest for European glory, with both sides vying for a spot in the final.
Charone’s reputation as a music journalist and PR star has made her a familiar figure in both the entertainment and sports worlds. Her illustrious career includes working with music icons such as Keith Richard, Elvis Presley, Rod Stewart, Elton John, Madonna, and many more. Despite her achievements in the music industry, Charone’s passion for football has been a consistent part of her life, as evidenced by her decades-long support for Chelsea. Her decision to watch the women’s team in Barcelona highlights her dedication to supporting women in sports and promoting diversity in traditionally male-dominated sectors.
While Charone’s presence in Spain means missing out on a men’s Chelsea game at Wembley Stadium, her commitment to the women’s team’s Champions League campaign shows her support for the club’s efforts to achieve success in all aspects of the sport. With Chelsea women facing a tough challenge against Barcelona, Charone’s experience and expertise in navigating challenging environments could serve as a source of inspiration for the players and staff. As a trailblazer in the music and PR industries, Charone’s involvement in football demonstrates her ongoing commitment to advocating for diversity and equality in different professional fields.
In a crowded Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys, where 37,000 fans are expected, Chelsea fans will appreciate the familiar presence of Charone among them, even if it means missing out on a men’s fixture at Wembley. Charone’s decades-long connection to Chelsea and her varied career in the music and PR industries make her a valuable asset to the club’s leadership team. Her visibility at the women’s Champions League clash showcases her support for the team’s ambitions and champions the cause of inclusivity and representation in sports. By actively participating in different spheres of influence, Charone embodies the spirit of breaking boundaries and embracing new opportunities for growth and success.
