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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Dom Smith

Manchester United chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe avoids FA charge over anti-immigration comments

Outrage: Sir Jim Ratcliffe - (PA)

Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has avoided a Football Association charge over recent anti-immigration comments.

In an interview with Sky News earlier last week, Ratcliffe claimed the UK has been “colonised by immigrants”, prompting a probe by the FA as to whether the 73-year-old billionnaire had brought the game into disrepute.

Ratcliffe faced an immediate and intense backlash, including from the Manchester United Supporters Trust (MUST) and Prime Minister Kier Starmer.

The club soon after issued a response via their official website, though did not mention their co-owner directly by name.

Ratcliffe subsequently issued a statement saying he was sorry if his remarks had "offended some people" in what some viewed as a non-apology.

English football governing body has now reminded Ratcliffe of his responsibilities as a senior participant in the game.

It is understood that no further investigation or action will take place.

Speaking shortly before news of FA’s decision was confirmed, United manager Michael Carrick repeated his club’s stance, reiterating that those who represent the club must be aware of its global reach and visibility.

"I think Sir Jim has made a statement and the club has made a statement on the back of it. For me to add to that is not my place,” he said. “Enough has been said in that regard.”

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