Man Utd owner Ratcliffe avoids charge by FA for ‘colonised’ comment
Al Jazeera
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Manchester United co-owner Jim Ratcliffe has faced significant backlash after claiming the UK had been "colonised" by immigrants during an interview. His remarks sparked widespread criticism, particularly from political figures like British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the club's supporters. While the Football Association (FA) decided not to charge Ratcliffe, they did issue a reminder of his responsibilities as a participant in English football. Ratcliffe later apologised for causing offense with his choice of words.
The controversy began during an interview with Sky News, where Ratcliffe commented on the UK's economy and immigration levels, stating, "You can’t have an economy with 9 million people on benefits and huge levels of immigrants coming in. I mean, the UK’s been colonised." His remarks touched a sensitive nerve in the UK, where immigration remains a divisive issue. Ratcliffe's statement was widely condemned, with critics accusing him of hypocrisy due to his residence in Monaco, which allows him to reduce his UK tax liabilities.
The backlash extended to Manchester United fans, who pride themselves on the club's diverse culture and supporter base. The Manchester United Supporters Trust criticized Ratcliffe for failing to uphold inclusion, stating that senior leadership should "make inclusion easier, not harder." Prime Minister Starmer had earlier called for Ratcliffe to apologise, emphasizing Britain's reputation as a tolerant and diverse nation.
Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick distanced himself from the controversy, reiterating the club's commitment to equality and diversity. While declining to comment directly on Ratcliffe's remarks, Carrick highlighted the club's proud global impact and its dedication to fostering an inclusive environment.
This incident underscores the broader debate around immigration in the UK and the potential consequences of public figures making controversial statements. Ratcliffe's comments not only sparked a conversation about immigration policies but also raised questions about corporate responsibility and hypocrisy, particularly given his personal financial arrangements. The situation serves as a reminder of the importance of mindful communication, especially for influential figures in sports and politics.
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/20/2026