Musk Says Farage Lacks What It Takes to Lead Reform UK

Elon Musk called for Nigel Farage to be replaced as leader of Reform UK, almost in coincidence with the claim that the billionaire was making overtures for fundraising for the party.

In a post made on His social media platform X, however, Musk added, Farage "doesn't have what it takes" to lead the party and didn't elaborate on the reasons.

Farage speculated that Musk's comments came from a disagreement over Farage supporting far-right activist Tommy Robinson. It was surprising and yet emphasized that he'd never "sell out my principles."

The world's richest man made that comment just a few hours after Farage, when he mentioned Musk as a ''friend, '' was interviewed by the BBC on its Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg program.

Musk has been on record as a strong supporter to Farage and his party declaring on X.

However, a rift developed this week over Musk's backing of Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon. Notably, Robinson is currently serving an 18-month prison term following his contempt of court pronouncement.

He confessed in court to breaching an injunction after repeating allegations of a Syrian refugee schoolboy after losing a libel case against him in 2021.

In a social media post on Sunday in response to Musk's comment, Farage said: "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."

Minutes after Farage made his statement, Musk posted on X: "Free Tommy Robinson now."

In the interview aired earlier on Sunday, Farage referred to Musk as a "hero" and stated that he makes Reform UK "look cool."

However, he also noted that Musk's support "doesn't mean I have to agree with every single statement he makes on X."

Farage mentioned that he intended to "have a conversation with (Musk) on a variety of topics" including Robinson during the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump.

Farage has maintained a strong relationship with Trump, who has appointed Musk to a role in his administration.

The key question now is whether Farage's friendship with the president-elect will be impacted.

Farage founded Reform UK in 2018, originally named the Brexit Party, and later returned as its leader before being elected as an MP in 2024.