FA Launches Review of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s ‘Colonised by Immigrants’ Comments as Manchester United Co-Owner Faces Scrutiny
The Football Association (FA) has confirmed it will examine controversial remarks made by Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe that the United Kingdom has been “colonised by immigrants,” amid calls for action over the comments’ potential impact on the reputation of the sport.
Ratcliffe — the billionaire founder of chemical giant Ineos and minority owner at Manchester United — sparked widespread criticism after telling Sky News that the UK had been “colonised” by immigrants and that immigration was “costing too much money.” His comments were condemned by political leaders, anti-racism campaigners and fan groups as offensive and divisive.
In response, the FA said it will review Ratcliffe’s comments to determine whether they breach its regulations, including FA Rule E3.1, which requires participants to act in the best interests of the game and not use “insulting words or behaviour.” Ratcliffe’s remarks could be considered an “aggravated breach” under Rule E3.2 if they are deemed to refer to nationality or race in a way that brings football into disrepute.
Ratcliffe has since issued an apology for his “choice of language,” saying he was sorry if his words offended people while also arguing he intended to spark debate about managed immigration policy. Manchester United publicly reiterated its commitment to inclusion and diversity, stressing the club’s roots in a multicultural city.
The FA’s review comes as critics, including the Mayor of Greater Manchester and groups such as Kick It Out, described the original comment as “disgraceful and deeply divisive,” warning that such language has “no place in English football.”
It remains unclear whether the FA will formally charge Ratcliffe; the outcome of the review will determine whether further disciplinary action is taken under the association’s conduct rules.
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