Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani has reportedly sent legal correspondence to Manchester United's legal representatives, expressing concerns about "a series of evidently untrue and defamatory" remarks made by Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
Ratcliffe acquired a 27.7% share in Manchester United in February, prevailing over the Qatari businessman in a highly publicised acquisition struggle.
Jassim, who sought to orchestrate a complete acquisition of the club, withdrew from the process in October after his offer failed to meet the Glazer family's reported £6bn valuation for the sale of Manchester United.
In an interview following his acquisition of a stake in Man United, Ratcliffe cast doubt on the existence of his rival, stating, "Still nobody's ever seen him, actually. The Glazers never met him... he never... I'm not sure he exists!"
In addition, Ratcliffe had also implied that the bid led by Sheikh Jassim had failed to provide proof of funds.
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According to The Athletic, legal representatives of Sheikh Jassim and his investment vehicle, known as the Nine Two Foundation, have now filed complaints regarding Ratcliffe's remarks.
Sheikh Jassim demands 'immediate corrective actions'
Sheikh Jassim has raised concerns about Ratcliffe's remarks, with his legal team stating in their communication to Manchester United that Jassim held face-to-face meetings with Joel and Avram Glazer on July 26, 2023.
Additionally, they expressed displeasure over the British billionaire's assertion that the Qataris had overstated the size of their bid.
The report adds that a legal letter dated January 24, 2024, was dispatched to Man United's legal representatives detailing their concerns.
In this communication, representatives of the Qataris asserted that the filing had generated a "misleading" perception and requested "immediate corrective action." However, as of now, no action has been initiated.
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Instead, it is understood that Man Utd have refrained from commenting on Sheikh Jassim's complaint and have not revised the filing submitted to the SEC.
Sheikh Jassim and his legal representatives are demanding that Ratcliffe and Man United cease making what they perceive as a "pattern of demonstrably false and defamatory" statements regarding their bid to acquire the club, referred to as 'Project Ruby'.
They further assert that they are still considering all legal options and have instructed Man United and Ratcliffe to retain all documents related to their client concerning the transaction and the issues raised in their complaint.
Sheikh Jassim committed to investing approximately £1bn, intending to allocate the funds toward either renovating Old Trafford or constructing a new stadium, in addition to enhancing Man United's training facility before pulling the plug on the deal last October.
Devesh Jaganath
