Sir Jim Ratcliffe recently claimed Britain was “colonized by immigrants” and apologized for his comments, but Manchester United co-owner continues to face backlash
The Glazer family is concerned about the ramifications of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s comments (Image: Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
Manchester United fear missing out on a new multi-million dollar sponsorship deal following Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s controversial comments on British immigration. United do not yet have a training kit partner, but the club’s shirtsleeve sponsorship deal expires this summer.
And United’s owners, the Glazer family, have raised concerns with executives about the club’s potential to take on a new partner, following the significant damage to the club’s image and reputation following Ratcliffe’s recent interview. The co-owners have apologized to the Glazers after sparking outrage by claiming that immigrants had “colonized” Britain.
The backlash was immense and Prime Minister Keir Starmer demanded an apology from the billionaire, which he did. The FA are still reviewing the comments and may decide to launch a full-scale investigation.
The Glazers believe United’s commercial value is one of the main reasons Floridians will never agree to sell their stake in the club. And the American is now concerned about the impact Ratcliffe’s comments will have on the club’s chances of securing a lucrative new contract down the road.
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The Glazers know that blue-chip companies only want to be associated with forward-thinking, progressive clubs. However, the situation could get even worse if United fail to qualify for the Champions League this season.
The situation will put even more pressure on caretaker manager Michael Carrick to secure a top-four finish. Carrick, unbeaten in five games since taking over, faces Everton on Monday night.
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Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s comments could hurt Manchester United commercially (Image: Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)
And he is preparing to face harsh criticism over Ratcliffe’s comments and the club’s response to them when he faces the media at lunchtime on Friday.
United’s communications team are said to have briefed Carrick on how to deal with questions about Ratcliffe and what to do next, in the hope of not escalating the situation.
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