Man Utd Fires Back with Powerful Response to Sir Jim Ratcliffe's Controversial Immigrant Remarks
Manchester United has issued a public statement following Sir Jim Ratcliffe's divisive remarks about immigration in the United Kingdom, seemingly creating clear separation between the club and the outspoken billionaire who holds nearly 29% ownership.
Ratcliffe stated the U.K. has been "colonised by immigrants" and made inaccurate claims regarding the nation's demographic changes. The 73-year-old paradoxically qualifies as an immigrant himself, being a Monaco resident in what's recognized as a tax shelter.
Ratcliffe has faced significant public criticism, including from U.K. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer—"Offensive and wrong", Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham and notable Manchester United journalist and writer Andy Mitten.
Reports suggest there is "fury" among certain senior figures connected to Old Trafford's redevelopment initiative, as well as within the organization itself.
His later 'apology' merely clarified that he maintains his position, expressing regret for his choice of words rather than the underlying message.
On Thursday afternoon, Manchester United released an official declaration from the Communications Department. While not naming Ratcliffe directly, the statement emphasizing the club's dedication to "equality, diversity and inclusion" can only be understood one way.
"Manchester United takes pride in being an inclusive and accepting organization," it stated. "Our varied collection of players, personnel and worldwide supporter base, mirror the history and culture of Manchester; a city that welcomes everyone as home.
"Since introducing All Red All Equal in 2016, we have integrated equality, diversity and inclusion into all our activities. We stay firmly committed to the values and essence of that initiative. They are shown in our procedures but also in our atmosphere and are strengthened by our achievement of the Premier League's Advanced Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Standard."
Highlighting various events and programs the club has engaged in, the statement ended: "Manchester United embodies the unity and strength of all the communities we are honored to serve. We will continue to represent our people, our city and our supporters with intention and dignity."
What Next for Sir Jim Ratcliffe?
What Next for Sir Jim Ratcliffe?
Ratcliffe was addressing the European Industry Summit in Antwerp, with the timing of his statements positioned to overshadow Manchester United discussions for the following 11 days.
Eclipsing what has been a remarkable recovery under interim manager Michael Carrick, the controversy will persist without any matches to provide distraction. United's FA Cup exit means no fixture this upcoming weekend, with the squad not returning to play until Feb. 23.
Ratcliffe's statements are believed to be under FA investigation to assess whether his conduct has damaged the sport's reputation.
The applicable regulation, E3.1, typically results in financial penalties when violated. It declares: "A participant shall consistently act in the game's best interests and shall not behave improperly or damage the sport's reputation or use any violent conduct, serious foul play, threatening, abusive, indecent or insulting language or behavior."
Ratcliffe utilized a recently established company registered in the Isle of Man to acquire his Manchester United stake, with those shares later transferred to INEOS. He personally holds no official role at the club, notably missing from both Manchester United plc and Manchester United Football Club boards of directors. The Glazer family comprises the majority of the former, while Ratcliffe associates Omar Berrada and Sir Dave Brailsford are among those on the latter.