Manchester United has been compelled to issue a public statement emphasising its commitment to diversity and inclusion following controversial remarks by billionaire co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe claiming Britain is being “colonised by immigrants.”
The club’s statement, released after Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer demanded Ratcliffe apologise for his language, declared Manchester United “prides itself on being an inclusive and welcoming club” whilst highlighting its diverse players, staff and global supporter base.
Ratcliffe made the contentious comment during an interview with Sky News, sparking major backlash from politicians across the spectrum. The Prime Minister publicly called on the billionaire to issue an apology, emphasising the benefits of a diverse Britain and condemning the use of the word “colonised.”
The football club’s response avoided directly mentioning Ratcliffe’s remarks but stressed its commitment to equality principles. “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 statement read.
Manchester United referenced its All Red All Equal campaign launched in 2016, stating the club has “embedded equality, diversity and inclusion into everything we do” since that initiative began. The statement pledged the club remains “deeply committed” to the principles and spirit of that diversity and equality campaign.
The club highlighted its participation in initiatives at both men’s and women’s games throughout the current season marking mental health, LGBTQ+ inclusion, anti-racism and other equality issues. The activities demonstrate how diversity policies have been integrated into club culture and operations.
“Manchester United reflects the unity and resilience of all the communities we are so privileged to represent,” the statement concluded. “We will continue to represent our people, our city and our fans with purpose and pride.”
Ratcliffe issued an apology following the Prime Minister’s condemnation and the ensuing controversy. “I am sorry that my choice of language has offended some people in the UK and Europe,” the billionaire stated.
He attempted to clarify his position, saying: “It is important to raise the issue of controlled and well-managed immigration that supports economic growth.” Ratcliffe explained his comments were made whilst answering questions about UK policy at the European Industry Summit in Antwerp.
“My intention was to stress that governments must manage migration alongside investment in skills, industry and jobs so that long-term prosperity is shared by everyone,” he stated, adding: “It is critical that we maintain an open debate on the challenges facing the UK.”
The controversy placed Manchester United in an awkward position, with the club’s public diversity commitments appearing at odds with its co-owner’s language on immigration. The statement represents an attempt to distance the institution from Ratcliffe’s remarks without directly criticising the billionaire who holds significant ownership stake.
Manchester United’s diverse fanbase and international player roster meant the club faced pressure to respond publicly to Ratcliffe’s comments. The statement’s emphasis on Manchester as “a city that anyone can call home” provided implicit counter-messaging to the “colonised” framing used by the co-owner.
The club will continue its diversity and inclusion programming throughout the season, with the controversy likely prompting increased scrutiny of how Manchester United demonstrates its stated commitment to equality principles whilst maintaining business relationships with Ratcliffe.
