• Billionaire Jim Ratcliffe has successfully acquired a 25% stake in Manchester United through his chemical conglomerate Ineos Group, putting an end to a competitive bidding war that involved petro-states and hedge funds. The purchase, valued at $33 per share, totals approximately $5.4 billion, falling short of the initial expectations set at $6 billion. Ratcliffe, among Britain’s wealthiest individuals, will invest $300 million into the club, gaining two board seats.

• This landmark deal concludes a year-long sales process initiated by the Glazer family, the club’s previous owners. Ratcliffe emerged as the front-runner, ultimately surpassing a rival offer from Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani. The Qatari group withdrew its bid in October, stating it wouldn't overpay for the club, leaving Ratcliffe in a winning position. Ratcliffe's victory solidifies his intent to build a personal sporting empire, adding to his ownership of France’s OGC Nice, cycling group Team Sky, and a stake in the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One team.