Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the co-owner of Manchester United and one of the UK’s richest men, has sparked controversy over comments he made about immigration in an interview with Sky News.
Speaking to economics and data editor Ed Conway, Sir Jim said Britain had been “colonised by immigrants” who are draining resources from the state.
Sir Jim’s comments have drawn criticism from the prime minister, who called them “offensive and wrong”, as well as from a number of anti-racism groups, with Kick It Out, football’s anti-discrimination body, labelling the remarks as “disgraceful and deeply divisive”.
But who is the billionaire behind the controversial comments?
What does he do for work?
Sir Jim, a former chemical engineer, is the founder, chairman and majority owner of the INEOS petrochemicals group, which he started in May 1998.
Today, the company operates 154 sites in 27 countries, generating more than £40bn annually and employing over 24,500 people worldwide.
As well as football, INEOS is also involved in several other sports, including Formula 1, cycling and sailing.
How much is he worth?
According to the 2025 Sunday Times Rich List, Sir Jim’s net worth is estimated at £17.05bn, a decline of £6.5bn from the previous year.
The 73-year-old is currently Britain’s seventh-richest man, but his wealth has fluctuated in recent years.
He topped the UK-only list in 2018, when his personal wealth was estimated at £21.05bn.
When did he become Manchester United co-owner?
A lifelong United fan, Sir Jim became a minority owner of the club in February 2024, spending over £1bn to acquire a 25% stake and assume control over football operations.
He had previously tabled a bid…
