Manchester United Co-Owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe Celebrates 74th Birthday in Victoria Falls
Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe celebrates 74th birthday in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe on 18 October 2026. The British billionaire praises the country as very safe with friendly people, excellent coffee and great wildlife while visiting Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park and Mana Pools.
Kwedu News 
By Staff Reporter
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe — British billionaire and Manchester United co-owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, marked his 74th birthday in Zimbabwe on Sunday, choosing the country’s iconic Victoria Falls as the starting point of an eight-day private holiday.
Ratcliffe, founder and chairman of chemicals giant, INEOS, and one of Britain’s wealthiest individuals, arrived in Victoria Falls on Saturday.
On Sunday morning he played a round of golf at the Elephant Hills Golf Course, describing the experience as “glorious” and “magnificent” despite hitting one tree with his ball.
In remarks captured in a video shared by Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Ratcliffe spoke warmly of the country.
“It is my birthday today and we have chosen Zimbabwe for my birthday,” he said.
“It’s been a glorious golf course, the people have been lovely, the weather’s fantastic.”
He rated the hospitality “10 out of 10,” highlighting the friendliness of local people and the quality of the coffee. L
“In terms of hospitality, so far 10 out of 10, they can’t be more friendly. The coffee is good, in fact the coffee is excellent here actually… That’s why I love Zimbabwe,” he said.
Ratcliffe also described Zimbabwe as “a magnificent place" and "very safe,” praising its wildlife and natural attractions.
He noted Victoria Falls as one of the wonders of the world and singled out Hwange National Park and Mana Pools as outstanding destinations.
His itinerary includes stays in both Hwange and Mana Pools later in the trip.
Ratcliffe recalled a previous visit about a decade ago when he canoed along the Zambezi River, describing that experience as “quite exciting.”
The visit has been welcomed by Zimbabwean tourism authorities as a high-profile endorsement of the country’s attractions.
The Ministry of Tourism and the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority publicly expressed delight at hosting the industrialist and Manchester United co-owner.
Ratcliffe, who was born on 18 October 1952, has significant sporting interests beyond football, including involvement with the INEOS Grenadiers cycling team and other high-profile ventures.
