The controversy following Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s comments about immigration is growing, attracting attention at the highest levels of government.
This morning, the Manchester United co-owner ignited significant backlash by stating during an interview with Sky News that the UK has been “colonised by immigrants.”
The remarks faced heavy criticism on social media and from supporter groups, including the 1958 fan group, which publicly called the billionaire “a total embarrassment.”
The UK Prime Minister has now responded.
In a statement posted on X, Keir Starmer sharply criticized Ratcliffe’s comments.
The Prime Minister stated: “Offensive and wrong. Britain is a proud, tolerant, and diverse country. Jim Ratcliffe should apologise.”
This intervention raises the stakes significantly.
What started as a controversial interview has evolved into a national political debate involving a key figure in the Premier League.
Ratcliffe, who became co-owner of Manchester United through INEOS and has implemented major changes at Old Trafford, defended his stance by suggesting that tough decisions in business, football, or politics often make leaders unpopular.
However, his comments about immigration have shifted the discussion beyond football governance.
The timing is also critical.
Manchester United is in a phase of transition following management changes and structural adjustments, with Ratcliffe acknowledging that he has become “very unpopular” with some fans.
With the Prime Minister calling for an apology, pressure is mounting on Ratcliffe to clarify or retract his statements.
How Ratcliffe decides to respond could have implications not only politically but also for Manchester United’s reputation.