“Such rhetoric has real-world consequences”: United fan group issues statement condemning Ratcliffe’s “concerning” views

A Manchester United supporters group has come out to strongly condemn recent remarks made by club co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe about immigration.

Ratcliffe’s comments

Earlier on Wednesday, a Sky Sports interview surfaced in which Ratcliffe discussed United, as well as other issues concerning Britain.

The INEOS billionaire admitted to being “very unpopular” at United as a result of making tough decisions that were needed to steer the club back on the right track.

Ratcliffe was referring to the controversial cost-cutting measures he implemented upon assuming operational control of United, including making hundreds of staff redundant, cancelling Sir Alex Ferguson’s lucrative ambassadorial contract and hiking ticket prices.

In his rant, Ratcliffe also claimed that the UK has been “colonised by immigrants.”

The 73-year-old added that immigrants were draining Britain’s resources, heaping yet more economic and social strain on the nation.

The Manchester United Muslim Supporters Club (MUMSC), which is officially recognised by United, have released a statement, blasting Ratcliffe’s rhetoric.

Ratcliffe condemned

MUMSC’s statement reads, “We are deeply concerned by recent remarks describing the UK as having been “colonised” by immigrants, and by positive references to political figures whose rhetoric on immigration and minority communities has long been divisive.”

“The term “colonised” is not neutral. It echoes language frequently used in far-right narratives that frame migrants as invaders and demographic threats. Such rhetoric has real-world consequences. The UK has experienced sustained increases in hate crimes in recent years, including rises in Islamophobia, anti-Semitism, racially motivated attacks, and hostility toward migrants and people of colour.”

“Public discourse shapes public behaviour. When influential figures adopt language that mirrors extremist talking points, it risks legitimising prejudice and deepening division. Manchester United is a global club built on diversity — on players, staff and supporters from every background, faith and ethnicity.”

“The strength of our club, and of our country, lies in that diversity. Debate on immigration policy is legitimate. But it must be conducted responsibly, without language that alienates communities or reinforces narratives associated with intolerance.”

“We stand with all communities who reject racism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia and hatred in all its forms, and we call for leadership that unites rather than divides.”

MUMSC statement regarding recent comments by Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

Read below. pic.twitter.com/mIgxPdKzWB

— MUMSC (@mum_sc) February 11, 2026

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also condemned Ratcliffe, branding his comments as “offensive and wrong.”

Breaking: Keir Starmer condemns Man United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe for saying the UK has been “colonised by immigrants”:

“Offensive and wrong. Britain is a proud, tolerant and diverse country. Jim Ratcliffe should apologise.” https://t.co/a5PgfzJ8w0

— Rob Harris (@RobHarris) February 11, 2026

Starmer has called for Ratcliffe to issue an apology.

Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images

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