Jim Ratcliffe Faces No FA Action Over Immigration Comments

No Action for Ratcliffe over migration comments

Jim Ratcliffe, Manchester United owner, won't face FA disciplinary action for saying Britain was 'colonised' by immigrants.

“You can't have an economy with 9 million people on benefits and huge levels of immigrants coming in...”

Manchester United owner Jim Ratcliffe won't face disciplinary action from the Football Association (FA) over his comments saying Britain had been “colonised” by immigrants. The FA issued a statement saying they've reminded Ratcliffe of his responsibilities as a participant in English football, but won't take further action.

Ratcliffe had apologized for his choice of language, but maintained that raising the issue of immigration was important. His comments sparked criticism from Prime Minister Keir Starmer and others, with some accusing him of using divisive language. Manchester United manager Michael Carrick emphasized the club's commitment to equality and diversity, saying they're proud of their global reach and inclusive environment.

“As background guidance, we have issued Sir Jim Ratcliffe with a reminder of his responsibilities as ‌a Participant in English football when ⁠taking part in ‌media interviews. We won’t be taking any further action,” the FA said in a brief statement.

Jim Ratcliffe, founder of INEOS, stated in a February 11 interview that high migration and people living on benefits are hurting the UK economy. He said, “You can't have an economy with 9 million people on benefits and huge levels of immigrants coming in. I mean, the UK has been colonized — it's costing too much money.”

Ratcliffe's comments sparked controversy, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer calling them “offensive and wrong.” Ratcliffe later apologized, saying his choice of words had caused offense, but maintained that discussing controlled immigration is important.

“You can't have an economy with 9 million people on benefits and huge levels of immigrants coming in. I mean, the ‌UK has been colonised - it's costing too much money,” Ratcliffe told the broadcaster. “The UK has been colonised by immigrants, really, hasn't it?”

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick chose not to comment on the controversy surrounding club owner Jim Ratcliffe's immigration comments, instead highlighting the club's values. “Equality, diversity and respect for each other is something we look to carry through every day,” Carrick told reporters ahead of their Premier League trip to Everton.

Carrick emphasized the club's global reach and proud tradition, saying, “I have travelled the world and know what this club means to an awful lot of people. I am fully aware of the responsibility and we try to carry that out every day... I am proud of what the club stands for and has done for so long.”

Kick It Out have a released a statement following The FA's decision to not take action against Sir Jim Ratcliffe after his comments about immigration. pic.twitter.com/VzEwqHOKf1

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) February 20, 2026

Manchester United is set to face Everton on Monday, aiming to strengthen their grip on a top-four finish and secure a Champions League spot. Currently fourth in the league with 45 points from 26 games, United trails third-placed Aston Villa by one point and fifth-placed Liverpool by four points.

A win against Everton would boost United's chances of qualifying for the Champions League, a key goal for the club under interim manager Michael Carrick.