Reform UK Receives Record-Breaking Donations from Crypto Billionaires

BitMEX co-founder Ben Delo and crypto investor Christopher Harborne made headlines in September 2026 when they separately pledged £36 million to Reform UK. Their donations were announced on consecutive days, with Delo's pledge described as the largest single donation to a British political party at the time.

The total amount pledged by both donors is £72 million, exceeding the party's reported first-half receipts of £15.49 million. This marks a significant escalation in funding from established supporters, with both Harborne and Delo having previously contributed to Reform UK in January 2026.

Harborne described his contribution as a philanthropic gift meant to help Reform prepare for government, adding that a competitive instinct had led him to match Delo's donation. The £72 million pledged by the two men has focused attention on their involvement with the party and raises questions about the influence of large donors in UK politics.