FA concludes investigation into Jim Ratcliffe after 'UK colonised by immigrants' comments as verdict revealed

Ed Griffiths

By Ed Griffiths


Published: 20/02/2026

- 17:29

Updated: 20/02/2026

- 17:39

Both Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Manchester United fan groups had condemned the interview

The Football Association has declared that Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe will not be charged over his comments in which he claimed the UK had been "colonised by immigrants".

The body has issued him with a reminder of his responsibilities as a participant in English football when taking part in media interviews.


However, the FA has declared that it will not take any further action against the billionaire.

An investigation was launched into the comments to determine if Sir Jim had brought the game into disrepute.

Both Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Manchester United fan groups had condemned the interview, calling for a public apology.

Ratcliffe has since apologised for the wording of his comments.

Manchester United has also released its own statement highlighting the inclusivity initiatives it participates in.

Ratcliffe, as a club co-owner, is subject to FA rules as a participant.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe

The Football Association has declared that Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe will not be charged over his comments

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GETTY

It was understood he was investigated over FA Rule E3.1, which covers general behaviour.

The rule states: "A participant shall at all times act in the best interests of the game and shall not act in any manner which is improper or brings the game into disrepute or use any one, or a combination of, violent conduct, serious foul play, threatening, abusive, indecent or insulting words or behaviour."

Rule E3.2 states that a breach of Rule E3.1 would be considered an “aggravated breach” where it includes a reference, whether express or implied, to any one or more of the following: ethnic origin, colour, race, nationality, religion or belief, gender, gender reassignment, sexual orientation or disability.

He has now been cleared of any formal punishment.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe Sir Jim Ratcliffe has apologised for his comments | PA

The controversy began when Jim Ratcliffe told Sky News: "You can’t have an economy with nine million people on benefits and huge levels of immigrants coming in.

"I mean, the UK is being colonised. It’s costing too much money. The UK has been colonised by immigrants.”

Football anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out has already condemned the comments, saying in a statement: "Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s comments are disgraceful and deeply divisive at a time when football does so much to bring communities together.

"In addition to the inaccurate figures mentioned, it’s worth reminding him that Manchester United has a diverse fan base and plays in a city whose cultural history has been enriched by immigrants. This type of language and leadership has no place in English football and we believe most fans will feel the same."

Michael Carrick

Manchester United boss Michael Carrick has broken his silence on the investigation

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PA

Manchester United boss Michael Carrick has broken his silence on the investigation, suggesting that everybody associated with the club has a "responsibility" to be respectful.

He said: "Sir Jim made his statement and the club made a statement on the back of it. It is not my place to add to that. Enough has ben said in that regard. I have been around this club for many years, we make a huge impact globally and we are responsible for that.

"Throughout the years, as a player and member of staff as a supporter, we are really proud of the environment and culture we’ve got at the club.

"Equality and diversity and respect for each other is something we look to carry through every day. I have travelled the world and know what this club means to a lot of people. I am aware of the responsibility we have.”