Manchester United have said they “pride” themselves “on being an inclusive and welcoming club” hours after the club’s co-owner described the UK as being “colonised” by immigrants.
The club released a statement emphasising the club’s inclusiveness and diversity on a day during which politicians continued to criticise Sir Jim Ratcliffe for his comments.
The founder of the INEOS chemicals group, who is also one of the club’s owners, today said he was “sorry” for his words, after Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer last night called on him to apologise.
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The club’s statement didn’t refer directly to Sir Jim’s words, or the prime minister’s criticism, but said: “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.
“We will continue to represent our people, our city and our fans with purpose and pride.
“Over the course of this season, we have participated in events and initiatives at our men’s and women’s games marking mental health, LGBTQ+ inclusion, No Room for Racism, violence against women and girls and homophobic chanting.
“We have also celebrated our supporters’ clubs’ events, including our Disabled Supporters’ Assocation’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.”
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