Jim Ratcliffe, the Monaco-based billionaire and co-owner of Manchester United, has apologised for his 'choice of language' after claiming that the UK is being 'colonised' by immigrants. The remarks, made during a Sky News interview, drew condemnation from politicians, football fans, and anti-racism campaigners, who labelled them inaccurate and reminiscent of far-right narratives.
Ratcliffe cited outdated statistics, saying the UK population had risen from 58 million in 2020 to 70 million, when the Office for National Statistics recorded 67 million in 2020, with 58 million last seen in 2000. He also claimed that 9 million people on benefits and high immigration levels were unsustainable. Critics pointed out that Ratcliffe saved an estimated £4bn in tax by moving to Monaco in 2020, while his company Ineos sought government financial support.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer called the comments 'offensive and wrong', while Chancellor Rachel Reeves described them as 'disgusting'. Manchester United issued an uncharacteristic statement affirming their commitment to 'equality, diversity and inclusion', without naming Ratcliffe. The Football Association is investigating whether his words brought the game into disrepute.
In a qualified apology, Ratcliffe said he was 'sorry that my choice of language has offended some people' but maintained the need for 'controlled and well-managed immigration'. The prime minister's spokesperson welcomed the apology, but stressed that the remarks remained 'inflammatory and divisive'. Shadow chancellor Mel Stride said the term was 'pejorative', while Reform UK leader Nigel Farage declared, 'Jim Ratcliffe is right.'
