British billionaire Manchester United Co-owner INEOS Founder Arrives in Victoria Falls for Private Holiday

British billionaire and Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe arrived in Victoria Falls on a Saturday for an eight-day private holiday in Zimbabwe. The trip highlights the country’s premier tourist destination, drawing praise from the INEOS founder for its hospitality, wildlife, and natural landscapes.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe touched down at Victoria Falls International Airport on a Saturday to begin a private tour of the southern African nation. Sources close to the trip confirmed an eight-day schedule for the billionaire, whose net worth reached US$17.5 billion according to Forbes real-time rankings on October 16, 2026. The visit brings one of Britain’s wealthiest figures to the heart of Zimbabwe’s tourism sector.

WATCH: Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe celebrates 74th birthday in Victoria Falls

Birthday Golf and Local Wildlife at Elephant Hills

Ratcliffe marked his 74th birthday on Sunday, October 18, 2026, by playing a round at the Elephant Hills Golf Course. The outing brought him into immediate contact with the regional ecosystem.

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.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe, via Archyde

During his time on the fairways, the Manchester United co-owner encountered local fauna including impala, warthogs, and bushbuck. His itinerary also marks a return to familiar territory; he recalled embarking on a canoeing expedition along the Zambezi River roughly a decade ago, noting that his appreciation for the country’s natural environment has only deepened over the years.

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Tourism Minister Deployment and Upcoming Itinerary

The high-profile visit serves as a timely boost for Zimbabwe’s tourism industry, which continues to recover from the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. Recognizing the significance of the journey, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi dispatched a team to ensure the billionaire received assistance throughout his stay.

The Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry welcomed the billionaire through a public statement, expressing delight at his presence in the resort town. Following his initial arrival in Victoria Falls, Ratcliffe’s remaining days include scheduled travels to Hwange National Park and Mana Pools to explore additional wildlife sanctuaries.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe Praises Zimbabwe Tourism During Victoria Falls Holiday — Photo: archyde.com

Hospitality Praise and Culinary Comforts

Beyond the fairways and wildlife, Ratcliffe offered high marks for the local amenities and the reception he received from residents.

Man Utd co owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe speaks on video from ZImbabwe

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.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe, via Archyde