Jamie Redknapp Makes Live Apology to Lord Sugar

It has been widely reported that Jamie Redknapp has made an unprecedented live apology to Lord Sugar. The apology related to comments Redknapp had made he had made during Sky Sports' live football coverage, when he said that Lord Sugar had left "Spurs in a right mess" after he left the club. 

Lord Sugar responded robustly on social media, saying that Redknapp would hear from his lawyers. That contact was clearly made, as Redknapp made an apology very quickly, saying that Lord Sugar had invested heavily in Spurs, and that he was sorry for what he said. This could well be the end of the matter, other than the ongoing media interest. It is not known whether Redknapp also agreed to pay damages or legal costs to Lord Sugar. 

Redknapp's lawyers must have advised him there was a chance the statements he made were capable of being defamatory, otherwise it is difficult to see why such an apology would have been made. It is also possible of course that Redknapp elected to make an apology very quickly, rather than being drawn into lengthy and expensive legal proceedings. 

The apology made by Redknapp has raised issues for others in his position. Redknapp is employed as a pundit by Sky to give his opinion on football, and all things football related. His apology suggests that he and other pundits may think twice about making any criticism of coaches, players, clubs or owners, which could result in legal action. In the footballing industry, where deep pockets are the norm, we may see more incidents of this type in future. 

The line between robust honestly held opinion, and defamation which could be actionable in Court, is thin. Sports commentary could become more  careful or restrained, which is not always what audiences want. 

What could be classed as a defamatory statement?

A defamatory statement is one which is untrue and causes serious harm to someone's reputation. A statement made in a television broadcast would be classed as libel rather than slander, which means that the claimant would not have to prove that they had suffered financial loss. 

The question of whether anyone thought less of Lord Sugar as a result of what Jamie Redknapp said is difficult. Had this claim been issued, it would have been up to Lord Sugar to prove that serious harm had been caused to him by Redknapp's statement and this is not always straightforward. 

Redknapp could potentially have relied on the defence of "honest opinion" had Lord Sugar sued him, but this defence would only have been available to him if he had set out the basis for his opinion, at the same time. If he did not, his only real option would be to prove that what he had said was true, which can be very difficult for defendants. 

How we can help with defamation claims

Our experienced defamation team understands the complexities of defamation claims, and we regularly assist both claimants who want to vindicate harm which has been caused to their reputation, as well as defendants, who want to defend their rights to freedom of expression.

If you need advice about defamation, whether it be libel or slander, we can help. We will speak to you and provide you with an initial assessment and agree the best way forward in your case, whether you are a claimant or defendant. We have the necessary expertise to assess the claim at an early stage, and advise whether a settlement involving a swift apology can be achieved, or whether further action is necessary. 

If you need help with a claim for libel or slander which has already been issued in Court, we will be able to assist. 

For confidential advice on any defamation matter, contact our specialist team today.