Manchester United Co-Owner Jim Ratcliffe Celebrates 74th Birthday In Zimbabwe
British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe has chosen Victoria Falls to celebrate his 74th birthday, praising Zimbabwe’s hospitality, wildlife and natural beauty. The Manchester United co-owner arrived on Saturday, 17 October 2026, ahead of his birthday celebrations on Sunday, 18 October.
Ratcliffe, the founder of INEOS, played golf at Elephant Hills Golf Course before preparing to visit Hwange National Park and Mana Pools during an eight-day stay in the country. He gave Zimbabwe’s hospitality a perfect score and described the golf course as a special place.
Destination Zimbabwe is delighted to welcome Sir Jim Ratcliffe, co-owner of Manchester United, who is in the country enjoying our offerings. Thank you for spending time in our beautiful destination, Sir Jim.
#ExperienceZimbabwe
#NhakaYedu
#IlifaLethu
#OurHeritage
#ThisIsUs
#ZimBho— Min of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Zimbabwe (@MOTHI_ZIMBABWE) October 18, 2026
Jim Ratcliffe Praises Zimbabwe’s Elephant Hills Golf Course
Speaking after his round on Sunday, Ratcliffe said Zimbabwe had made a strong impression on him.
“It is my birthday today, and we have chosen Zimbabwe for my birthday, and it’s been a glorious golf course, the people have been lovely, the weather’s fantastic.”
He also praised the course’s scenery, trees and wildlife, including impala, warthogs and bushbuck.
Ratcliffe said the natural surroundings made the experience particularly enjoyable, adding that he appreciated being able to play golf while surrounded by wildlife.
Manchester United Co-Owner Gives Zimbabwe 10/10 For Hospitality
The billionaire gave Zimbabwe’s hospitality a perfect rating, praising the friendliness of the people and the quality of the coffee.
“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 and again friendly faces everywhere.”
He also recalled canoeing between 80 and 100 kilometres down the Zambezi River about 10 years ago.
Jim Ratcliffe Heads To Hwange And Mana Pools
Ratcliffe’s itinerary includes approximately three nights in Hwange before travelling to Mana Pools, two of Zimbabwe’s prominent wildlife destinations.
He described Zimbabwe as a magnificent and welcoming country, highlighting Victoria Falls as one of the world’s natural wonders.
Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi also arranged for a dedicated team to assist the visitor during his stay. Ratcliffe’s visit offers Zimbabwe an opportunity to showcase its tourism attractions to an international audience.
The post Manchester United Billionaire Jim Ratcliffe Celebrates His 74th Birthday In Zimbabwe appeared first on iHarare News.
