The completion of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s deal to purchase a 27.7% stake in Manchester United marks a significant development in the ownership structure of the club.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s deal to buy a 27.7% stake in Manchester United has been completed.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos Group has completed the purchase of a 27.7% stake in Manchester United. While the Glazer family retains a majority stake, Ineos will now take control of football operations. Ratcliffe expressed the honor and responsibility of becoming a co-owner, emphasizing the commitment to bringing Manchester United back to the pinnacle of English, European, and world football. He highlighted the beginning of a journey that involves accelerating efforts to achieve these ambitious goals, including the development of world-class facilities for the fans.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe minority stake details
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, a Manchester-born businessman and chairman of Ineos, has completed the purchase of a 27.7% stake in Manchester United. The deal, agreed on Christmas Eve, includes the acquisition of 25% of United’s class B shares, largely owned by the Glazer family, along with up to 25% of its class A shares listed on the New York Stock Exchange. The transaction also involves a commitment of $300m (£237m) for future investment in Old Trafford.
Ratcliffe, a lifelong United supporter, attempted to buy Chelsea in May 2022. With this deal, Ineos will take control of football operations at the club, overseeing both men’s and women’s football operations and academies. Additionally, Ineos will have two seats on the Manchester United boards. The investment has received approval from the Football Association and Premier League, with Ratcliffe signing the top-flight’s owners’ charter.
The completion of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s purchase of a stake in Manchester United marks the first deal agreed under the Premier League’s updated owners’ and directors’ test. This revised test, approved by member clubs in March 2023, includes a review conducted by an independent oversight panel to ensure transparency and adherence to league regulations.
The Glazer family, who acquired Manchester United in 2005 for £790m, had announced in November 2022 their consideration of selling the club to “explore strategic alternatives.” Ratcliffe’s acquisition signals a new chapter for the club under changed ownership dynamics.
