Sir Jim Ratcliffe in talks to settle £180m dispute after Man United co-owner’s falling out

Manchester United minority shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe is reportedly in settlement talks with Sir Ben Ainslie to resolve an ongoing £180 million legal dispute. The conflict centers around the AC75 racing yacht Britannia, which was launched in 2024. Ratcliffe's company, Ineos, sued Ainslie's Athena Racing sailing team in March over their continued use of the boat after withdrawing financial backing for the 38th America's Cup.

Ainslie expressed confidence that both parties would resolve the matter before heading to court, noting the mutual desire they previously shared to win the competition. Legal filings reveal tensions involving Ineos Sport executives Rob Nevin and Jean-Claude Blanc, while potential trial dates at the Commercial Court are not available until November 2027.