Manchester United Addresses Ratcliffe’s Recent Remarks

Manchester United has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusion and diversity following recent controversial remarks made by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe. The club’s response comes after significant backlash regarding Ratcliffe’s comments on immigration.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Remarks

In a Wednesday interview with Sky News, Sir Jim Ratcliffe claimed the United Kingdom was being “colonised” by immigrants. He used inaccurate population statistics to support his argument. While Ratcliffe later apologized for any offense caused, he maintained his position on discussing the topic of immigration. The Manchester United Muslim Supporters Club described his remarks as “appalling,” accusing him of fostering division and endangering minority fans.

Manchester United Release a Statement

Manchester United released an official statement to distance the club from Ratcliffe’s comments, highlighting its dedication to equality and diversity. Ratcliffe holds a 27.7% stake in the club.

“Manchester United prides itself on being an inclusive and welcoming club,” the statement read. “Our diverse group of players, staff and global community of supporters reflect the history and heritage of Manchester, a city that anyone can call home.”

The club referenced its “All Red All Equal” campaign, launched in 2016, as a cornerstone of its efforts to embed equality, diversity, and inclusion into all its operations. Manchester United also detailed its participation in initiatives supporting mental health, LGBTQ+ inclusion, anti-racism, and campaigns against violence and homophobic chanting. The club mentioned celebrating events with its Disabled Supporters’ Association and Jewish Supporters’ Club.

“This all sits alongside the incredible work which the Manchester United Foundation undertakes in and around Manchester on a daily basis,” the statement continued. “Manchester United reflects the unity and resilience of all the communities we are so privileged to represent. We will continue to represent our people, our city and our fans with purpose and pride.”

Population Data and Previous Statements

During the original interview, Sir Jim Ratcliffe stated: “You can’t have an economy with nine million people on benefits and huge levels of immigrants coming in… The UK has been colonised by immigrants, really, hasn’t it? I mean, the population of the UK was 58 million in 2020, now it’s 70 million. That’s 12 million people.”

Official figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) estimate the UK population was 67 million in mid-2020 and is projected to be 70 million in mid-2024. The population was approximately 58.9 million in the year 2000.