Sir Jim Ratcliffe Issues Apology Over “Colonized” Claims as FA Launches Disrepute Probe

Sir Jim Ratcliffe, billionaire founder of INEOS and minority owner of Manchester United, has issued an apology after his remarks to Sky News that the United Kingdom has been “colonized by immigrants” drew sharp condemnation from political leaders, football fans, and the public.

In a statement released today, Ratcliffe said he regretted the choice of words and the offence they caused in the UK and Europe. He clarified that his intention was to highlight the importance of well-managed immigration that supports economic growth, jobs, skills development, and manufacturing. He stressed the need for open debate on immigration challenges while ensuring prosperity is shared widely.

The original comments were made during an interview with Sky’s economics and data editor Ed Conway at the European Industry Summit in Antwerp. Ratcliffe argued that immigration has significantly altered the UK, framing it as a policy issue requiring careful handling alongside investment in industry and workforce training.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, Chancellor Rachel Reeves, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey, and others condemned the language as divisive, disgraceful, and out of step with British values of diversity and inclusion. Downing Street welcomed the apology, stating Ratcliffe was “absolutely right” to say sorry and that immigration debate should avoid inflammatory terms.

The Football Association (FA) is reviewing the comments, Sky News understands, to determine if they bring the game into disrepute. Manchester United – where Ratcliffe holds a 27.7% stake and controls football operations – has long celebrated its multicultural identity, with a global fanbase and diverse playing squad that reflects Manchester’s history as a city shaped by waves of migration.

Irony: Manchester United’s Reliance on Migrant Workforce

The remarks have drawn particular attention due to the irony of Ratcliffe’s position at Manchester United, a club built on the contributions of players, staff, and supporters from immigrant backgrounds. The Premier League club’s current first-team squad includes players from more than 15 countries, many from migrant or second-generation families:

• Key contributors such as Bruno Fernandes (Portugal), Lisandro Martínez (Argentina), Alejandro Garnacho (Argentina), and Rasmus Højlund (Denmark) represent the global talent pool that has fueled United’s success.

• Historically, the club’s identity has been shaped by international arrivals – from George Best (Northern Ireland), Eric Cantona (France), Ruud van Nistelrooy (Netherlands), Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal), to modern stars like Marcus Rashford (whose family has Caribbean roots) and Kobbie Mainoo (parents from Ghana).

• Beyond the pitch, Manchester United’s global fanbase and commercial operations rely heavily on international markets, with supporters from Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas forming a core part of the club’s revenue and cultural reach.

Critics pointed out that describing the UK as “colonized” by immigrants appears at odds with the multicultural reality of Manchester United and the Premier League, which actively promotes diversity as a strength. The Muslim Supporters Group at Manchester United expressed concern that the comments risk legitimizing prejudice and deepening division within the club’s fan community.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage defended the underlying point, arguing that mass immigration has changed the character of many UK areas and that such concerns should be openly discussed.

The comments have reignited national discussion about immigration levels, public discourse, and the role of prominent business figures in political debates. Ratcliffe’s influence extends beyond football – INEOS is a major industrial player, and he has sought public investment for Manchester United-related regeneration projects.