Sir Jim Ratcliffe releases statement after uproar over his inflammatory immigration views

Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has released a statement in response to the fierce backlash he has faced since his controversial views on UK immigration.

Ratcliffe outrage

Ratcliffe has come under intense criticism since Wednesday evening, when he claimed that the UK had been “colonised” by immigrants.

Speaking to Sky at the European Industry Summit in Antwerp, Ratcliffe accused immigrants of draining the UK’s resources while heaping further economic and social pressure on the state.

He urged that difficult choices be made, comparing Britain’s position to the one he took on at United. The INEOS billionaire remarked that he’s become a “very unpopular” figure at Old Trafford as a result of his sweeping cost-cutting measures, but insisted they were essential, and the club is already beginning to see the rewards.

Ratcliffe has since faced severe backlash for his rhetoric. United fan group, Manchester United Muslim Supporters Club (MUMSC), branded his remarks as “deeply concerning”, warning that they have “real-world consequences.”

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that Ratcliffe was “offensive and wrong” as he demanded that the 73-year-old businessman apologise. These sentiments were echoed by Chancellor Rachel Reeves.

Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham noted that Ratcliffe’s comments “go against everything for which Manchester has traditionally stood.”

pic.twitter.com/HqjLt1bkLL

— Andy Burnham (@AndyBurnhamGM) February 12, 2026

Now, the United co-owner has released a statement in response.

Ratcliffe breaks his silence

Ratcliffe’s statement reads [as conveyed by Sky], “I am sorry that my choice of language has offended some people in the UK and Europe and caused concern, but it is important to raise the issue of controlled and well-managed immigration that supports economic growth.”

“My comments were made while answering questions about UK policy at the European Industry Summit in Antwerp, where I was discussing the importance of economic growth, jobs, skills and manufacturing in the UK.”

“My intention was to stress that governments must manage migration alongside investment in skills, industry and jobs so that long-term prosperity is shared by everyone.”

“It is critical that we maintain an open debate on the challenges facing the UK.”

FA reviewing Ratcliffe’s comments

According to The Athletic, The Football Association are “looking into comments” made by Ratcliffe.

The newspaper reveals, “After making the comments, which were widely condemned by politicians and fans of Manchester United, FA sources, speaking on the condition of anonymity to protect relationships, indicated that although the governing body is yet to launch a formal investigation, it is now reviewing Ratcliffe’s remarks to see if there is a rule breach.”

Under FA Rule E3.1, which covers general behaviour, the FA state that “participants” are required to act in the best interests of the game and avoid improper or disreputable conduct.

This includes the use of violent, threatening, indecent, or insulting language. Ratcliffe’s involvement with United qualifies him as a “participant” in this context.

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