Manchester United’s co-owners Ineos’ decision to withdraw multi-million-pound sports sponsorship deals around the world could have severe consequences for the survival of the All Blacks.

Ineos acquired a 28.9% stake in Manchester United early in 2024, but have started the new year by going on a cost-cutting crusade, seemingly trying to streamline their resources to try and rebuild the English giants, who have severe problems on and off the field.

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The British petrochemical giant, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, started the cost-cutting inside the club by significantly reducing the workforce.

In July 2024, Ineos implemented a redundancy program that saw 250 jobs cut across various departments. Even the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson wasn’t spared, as he was relieved of his £2 million-a-year ambassador role at the club.

More recently, in February 2025, reports indicate Ineos intends to cut an additional 100 to 200 jobs. These cuts follow a challenging financial period for the club, with cumulative losses of £370 million over the past five years and a net loss of £113 million in the 2023-24 accounts.

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