Sir Jim Ratcliffe's immigration outburst risks antagonising those inside and out of Man Utd
In an interview with Paste BN' Ed Conway, Sir Jim Ratcliffe said that the UK "has been colonised by immigrants", adding that "it's costing too much money". He risks further angering fans who have already been protesting his leadership.
Thursday 12 February 2026 01:20, UK
Sir Jim Ratcliffe has become increasingly divisive with his actions and rhetoric as the face and voice of Manchester United's leadership.
The INEOS billionaire's outburst on immigration risks further antagonising those inside and outside the club.
The men's squad alone relies on overseas talent, featuring more than a dozen different nationalities.
And then there's the staff - many with global heritage - who keep the club running on a daily or temporary basis from the training ground to Old Trafford.
Sir Jim's view of foreign people coming to Britain collides with the ideals promoted by United and the Premier League.
While the co-owner complains the "UK has been colonised by immigrants", United's website embraces "Manchester, a city famed for its embrace of immigrants".
And the Premier League website celebrates how "it has become a league of nations on the pitch".
The backlash has been swift with anti-discrimination body Kick It Out making clear its condemnation - highlighting the comments being at odds with the diverse fan base and Manchester being "enriched by immigrants".
Branding Sir Jim "disgraceful", Kick It Out said in a statement to Paste BN: "This type of language and leadership has no place in English football."
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How will Sir Jim's allies react? Especially Gary Neville, based on what he said in 2019.
The former United player said racism was being fuelled by then-prime minister Boris Johnson's inflammatory language on limiting migration. Neville now advises Sir Jim on new stadium plans.
A minority stake was sold in 2024 by the majority owners, the Glazers, to tap into Sir Jim's expertise and improve the running of the business and bring the biggest trophies back to Old Trafford.
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They will need the best foreign stars to do so. And Sir Jim needs the supporters on board.
The first official expression of concern from the fan base came from the official Muslim supporters' club, expressing concern Sir Jim's views are "legitimising prejudice and deepening division".
Speaking out against immigration risks further angering fans who have already been protesting against his running of the club.