Ratcliffe Issues Apology Over Controversial Immigration Comments

omidbasir- Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the Manchester United minority shareholder and CEO of INEOS, has issued a formal apology to the club’s co-owners following significant backlash regarding his comments on immigration in the UK. Reports indicate that Ratcliffe personally reached out to the Glazer family to clarify his statements and address the controversy they generated, as the club evaluates the potential repercussions on its reputation and commercial collaborations.

His remarks ignited outrage when he suggested that immigrants had “colonised” the UK during an interview, leading to condemnation from Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who has called for a public apology. The Football Association (FA) is reportedly reviewing these statements and may consider launching a formal investigation. Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has also demanded accountability from Ratcliffe, who is a resident of Monaco.

The Glazers are believed to be highly concerned about how Ratcliffe’s comments might impact Manchester United’s sponsors and commercial partnerships, as well as the club’s ambitions for a new stadium. Burnham described the remarks as “inaccurate, insulting, and inflammatory,” raising alarms about potential disruptions to negotiations regarding the redevelopment of Old Trafford or the construction of a new £1 billion stadium announced last year.

Plans for the new stadium are heavily dependent on cooperation among the club, local councils, and Greater Manchester authorities. Any damage to relationships with civic leaders or investors could complicate a project deemed crucial for enhancing the club’s long-term valuation.

On Thursday, Ratcliffe publicly apologized, elaborating on his remarks. He stated, “I am sorry that my choice of language has offended some people in the UK and Europe, but it is important to discuss controlled and well-managed immigration that supports economic growth. My comments were made in response to questions about UK policy at the European Industry Summit in Antwerp, where I was highlighting the significance of economic growth, jobs, skills, and manufacturing in the UK.”

He further explained, “My intention was to emphasize that governments must manage migration in conjunction with investment in skills, industry, and jobs, ensuring that long-term prosperity is shared by all. It is crucial to maintain an open dialogue about the challenges facing the UK.”

While Ratcliffe’s apology may mitigate tensions temporarily, the club is expected to face ongoing scrutiny from the media and its commercial partners.

Since acquiring a £1.25 billion stake in Manchester United in 2024, Ratcliffe has been heavily involved in the club’s operations, influencing its direction both on and off the field. Moving forward, he will need to collaborate with stakeholders behind the scenes to mend the damage caused by his recent statements.