LONDON, United Kingdom—Jim Ratcliffe, the billionaire co-owner of Manchester United, issued a formal apology on Thursday following widespread condemnation of his inflammatory comments describing the United Kingdom as “colonised by immigrants.” The Monaco-based industrialist had made the remarks during a televised interview where he linked immigration to economic strain.
Ratcliffe, founder and chairman of the INEOS chemical conglomerate, expressed regret specifically for his “choice of language,” stating: “I am sorry that my choice of language has offended some people in the UK and Europe and caused concern.” He defended his underlying intention to highlight the need for “controlled and well-managed immigration that supports economic growth.” The 73-year-old businessman emphasized that his comments were made during a discussion about UK policy at the European Industry Summit in Antwerp, focusing on economic growth, jobs, and manufacturing.
The apology came after direct pressure from Prime Minister Keir Starmer, whose spokesman acknowledged the apology as “absolutely right” while reaffirming the government’s commitment to a “Britain built for all.” Despite the controversy, Finance Minister Rachel Reeves confirmed continued government support for Ratcliffe’s UK businesses, including the Grangemouth oil refinery in Scotland, though she characterized his original statements as “unacceptable” and “disgusting.
Ratcliffe’s initial interview with Sky News included statistically inaccurate claims, asserting the UK population grew from 58 million in 2020 to 70 million currently. Official Office for National Statistics data confirms the population was actually 67 million in mid-2020 and just under 70 million in mid-2024.
The football community reacted strongly, with anti-racism organization Kick It Out condemning the “disgraceful and deeply divisive” remarks and noting that such language “has no place in English football.” Several Manchester United supporters’ groups and Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham also criticized the characterization of immigrants as a “hostile invading force.” The comments could potentially lead to disciplinary action from England’s Football Association for “bringing the game into disrepute.”