Manchester United part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe found himself under fire from supporters following his controversial decision to raise ticket prices to a flat rate of £66 for home matches. The backlash unfolded during United’s 1-0 victory against Fulham at Craven Cottage on Sunday, where disgruntled fans expressed their frustration both during and after the match.
Ratcliffe, 72, who owns a 28.94% stake in the club through his petrochemicals company INEOS, has faced mounting criticism for recent cost-cutting measures. However, the removal of concessions and the subsequent ticket price hike has proven to be the most contentious among fans.
Fans Voice Anger
During the match, chants such as “Just like the Glazers, Jim Ratcliffe’s a c***” and “£66, taking the p*** again” echoed from the away section, likening Ratcliffe to the much-maligned Glazer family, United’s majority owners. The discontent continued post-match as Ratcliffe, seated in the back of a car, was confronted by fans who berated him for the price increase.
In a video shared on social media platform X, supporters surrounded his vehicle, shouting, “66 fing quid, you’re taking the p.” Ratcliffe briefly rolled down the window, seemingly attempting to diffuse the situation by offering a thumbs-up and saying, “Get your photograph, guys.” However, tensions escalated as fans pressed him further.
One fan asked, “What are you doing, mate? We’re locals. Come on, sort it out,” while another claimed, “We pay triple their fans. Our prices should be a third of Fulham’s.” As the car eventually drove away, chants of “Jim Ratcliffe’s a c***” resumed, highlighting the extent of the dissatisfaction.
Ratcliffe’s Defense
Addressing the criticism, Ratcliffe justified the decision in an interview with the fanzine United We Stand: “I don’t think it makes sense for a Manchester United ticket to cost less than a ticket to see Fulham. I don’t want to end up in a position where the genuine local fans can’t afford to come, but I do want to optimize the ticketing. We need to find a balance. And you can’t be popular all the time either.”
Despite his explanation, the decision has deepened divisions between Ratcliffe and the club’s loyal supporters. With tensions rising, Ratcliffe faces increasing pressure to address fan concerns and rebuild trust with Manchester United’s local fanbase.
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