Elon Musk has publicly questioned Nigel Farage’s capability to lead Reform UK, just weeks after reports emerged that the billionaire entrepreneur was considering a significant donation to the party. Musk, the owner of social media platform X, posted that Farage “doesn’t have what it takes” to lead the party, though he did not elaborate on his reasoning. Farage suggested the criticism stemmed from a disagreement over Musk’s support for far-right activist Tommy Robinson. Responding to Musk’s remarks, Farage called them “a surprise” but affirmed that he would “never sell out [his] principles.”
This marks a shift in what had appeared to be a close alliance. Musk has been an outspoken supporter of Farage and Reform UK, once declaring on X that Britain “absolutely” needs the party. However, their differences became apparent this week over the controversial figure of Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon. Robinson is currently serving an 18-month prison sentence for contempt of court after breaching an injunction tied to a 2021 libel case involving a Syrian refugee schoolboy.
Farage publicly distanced himself from Robinson, stating: “Elon is a remarkable individual, but on this, I am afraid I disagree. My view remains that Tommy Robinson is not right for Reform, and I never sell out my principles.” Musk responded by doubling down on his support for Robinson, posting: “Free Tommy Robinson now.”
Earlier on Sunday, Farage described Musk as a “hero” who has made Reform UK “look cool” but emphasized that Musk’s endorsement does not mean they see eye-to-eye on every issue. Farage hinted at the possibility of a face-to-face discussion with Musk on topics such as Robinson during the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump, where the two are expected to meet. Farage also acknowledged Musk’s significant influence on the party’s image but maintained that he would not compromise his principles for any individual.
Farage founded Reform UK in 2018, initially under the name Brexit Party, and returned as its leader after being elected as an MP in 2024. Last month, Farage and the party’s treasurer, Nick Candy, met Musk at Mar-a-Lago to discuss a potential donation to the party. Reports suggested Musk might contribute up to $100 million (£80.5 million) to Reform UK, possibly even becoming a UK citizen to facilitate the donation. However, Farage dismissed such speculation as “for the birds.” As a U.S. citizen, Musk is barred from making direct political donations in the UK but could do so through the British branch of his company, X. For now, the possibility of a substantial donation appears to be on hold.
Since meeting with Farage, Musk has increasingly involved himself in UK politics, particularly regarding calls for a national inquiry into grooming gangs. Musk amplified demands from both Reform UK and the Conservative Party after the government rejected a request for a nationwide investigation into historical sexual abuse cases in Oldham, instead instructing the local council to conduct its own inquiry. Musk also criticized Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, accusing him of failing to adequately prosecute grooming gangs during his tenure as Director of Public Prosecutions.
Musk’s criticism extended to Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips, whom he called a “rape genocide apologist,” claiming she “deserves to be in prison.” These remarks drew significant backlash. Health Secretary Wes Streeting called Musk’s statements a “disgraceful smear” and defended the efforts of Starmer and Phillips in prosecuting rapists and child abusers. Streeting also highlighted the government’s focus on implementing the recommendations of the 2022 Child Sexual Abuse Inquiry, which consolidated findings from previous investigations into grooming gangs in Rotherham, Rochdale, and Telford.
Farage defended Musk’s right to express his views, stating that Musk uses “very tough terms” but emphasizing that “free speech is back” on X under Musk’s ownership. However, the rift between Farage and Musk raises questions about their future collaboration. Musk’s potential financial support for Reform UK—and his influence over its political direction—remains uncertain as the two leaders grapple with diverging priorities.
For now, Farage appears focused on maintaining his party’s principles while navigating the complexities of his relationships with both Musk and President-elect Donald Trump. As Musk deepens his engagement with UK politics, his controversial rhetoric and high-profile disagreements are likely to continue shaping the political discourse surrounding Reform UK and its leadership.