Sir Jim Ratcliffe Row Takes New Twist as Maro Itoje Criticises Immigration Remarks

England rugby union captain Maro Itoje has described Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s recent comments about immigration in the United Kingdom as “ridiculous”, criticising both the phrasing and the accuracy of the Manchester United co-owner’s remarks.

Ratcliffe sparked controversy earlier this week after claiming the UK had been “colonised” by immigrants. Speaking in an interview with Sky News, he said:

“I mean, the UK has been colonised. It’s costing too much money. The UK has been colonised by immigrants, really, hasn’t it?”

The billionaire part-owner of Manchester United subsequently faced criticism from Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who described the remarks as “offensive and wrong”. Although Ratcliffe later apologised for “offending some people” with his choice of language, Itoje did not temper his response when asked about the issue on the eve of England’s Calcutta Cup clash against Scotland national rugby union team at Murrayfield.

Itoje said:

“Obviously I don’t condone the language he used. I was born in this country of Nigerian descent and I think it’s ridiculous to say Great Britain has been colonised by immigrants because that is so far from the truth. I think it’s wrong.”

In his apology, Ratcliffe stated:

“I am sorry that my choice of language has offended some people in the UK and Europe and caused concern, but it is important to raise the issue of controlled and well-managed immigration that supports economic growth.”

Manchester United Distance Themselves

While Ratcliffe sought to clarify his position, Manchester United moved to distance themselves from the comments. In a club statement, United reaffirmed their commitment to equality and inclusion.

The statement read:

“Manchester United prides itself on being an inclusive and welcoming club.

“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.

“Since launching All Red All Equal in 2016, we have embedded equality, diversity and inclusion into everything we do.

“We remain deeply committed to the principles and spirit of that campaign. They are reflected in our policies but also in our culture and are reinforced by our holding of the Premier League’s Advanced Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Standard.

“Over the course of this season, we have participated in events and initiatives at our men’s and women’s matches marking mental health, LGBTQ+ inclusion, No Room for Racism, violence against women and girls, and tackling homophobic chanting.

“We have also celebrated our supporters’ clubs’ events, including our Disabled Supporters’ Association’s Christmas party and our Jewish Supporters’ Club’s Chanukah event. In the weeks and months ahead, we will be supporting further initiatives in these areas.

“This all sits alongside the incredible work which the Manchester United Foundation undertakes in and around Manchester on a daily basis.

“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.”

The episode marks the latest development in a debate that has drawn attention beyond football, with leading figures from politics and sport weighing in on the language used and its wider implications.