Manchester United co-owner Jim Ratcliffe has apologised after claiming the UK is being “colonised” by immigrants, sparking widespread condemnation from politicians, football fans, and anti-racism campaigners. The Monaco-based billionaire made the comments during an interview with Sky News, citing inaccurate population figures to suggest that 12 million immigrants had arrived since 2000.
Ratcliffe, who moved to Monaco to save an estimated £4bn in tax, faced accusations of hypocrisy after his remarks. Critics noted that he had sought government financial support for his loss-making Ineos business while complaining that immigrants were “costing too much”. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called the comments “offensive and wrong”, while Chancellor Rachel Reeves described them as “disgusting”.
In a statement, Ratcliffe said he was “sorry that my choice of language has offended some people”, but stopped short of apologising for the sentiments expressed. He added that it was “important to raise the issue of controlled and well-managed immigration”. The Football Association is investigating whether his words brought the game into disrepute.
Manchester United issued an unusual public statement affirming the club’s commitment to “equality, diversity and inclusion”, noting that “a diverse group of players, staff and global community of supporters reflect the history and heritage of Manchester”. The club did not name Ratcliffe but the reference was clear.
