Nike Cut Ties With Neymar Due to Sexual Assault Allegation
The company says Neymar refused to cooperate in an investigation into the complaint.
Nike has issued a statement explaining that it ended its partnership with Neymar after an employee of the footwear giant came forward with sexual assault allegation against the Brazilian soccer player.
According to Nike, the company cut ties with Neymar because he “refused to cooperate in a good faith investigation of credible allegations of wrongdoing by an employee.” The allegation, brought forward to Nike in 2018, stems from an incident that allegedly occurred in 2016. The employee initially wanted the complaint to remain confidential, but decided to pursue an investigation in 2019. Nike provided the employee with independent counsel and paid for the expense. The company told CNN that the investigation was “inconclusive.”
Nike and Neymar’s partnership lasted 15 years and was reportedly set to run for another eight before the duo parted ways. News of their disunion broke last summer, around the same time Neymar signed a contract with PUMA.
