Nike and Volkswagen are the latest brands to pull away from Sydney Swans players following the alleged incident of sexual assault.
They follow Telstra and Colgate-Palmolive as the latest brands to pause its partnerships with the players involved.
In a statement provided to B&T, a Nike Spokesperson revealed that any relationships Nike has with its players will be put on hold until further notice.
“We are deeply concerned by the disturbing allegations involving players from the Sydney Swans. While the investigation remains ongoing, Nike has paused its relationships with the Nike-contracted athletes involved and will continue to monitor developments closely.”
Media outlets reported on Monday morning that Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner, Riley Bice, Nick Blakey and James Jordan had all been linked to an investigation into an alleged sexual assault. Out of the five, Heeney and Warner are both Nike sponsored athletes. Bice also wear Nike boots.
On Monday morning Victoria Police attended the Pullman Hotel in East Melbourne to investigate allegations of a sexual assault.
After defeating Essendon on Sunday night, the Swans had locked in a top two spot on the AFL ladder heading into the finals series. The whole team and staff were staying at the hotel where the alleged incident occurred.
The five players have not been arrested, and no charges have been laid.
During this investigation Volkswagen has also paused activities with any players involved.
“Volkswagen Group Australia has clear values and expectations for the organisations and individuals associated with our brands,” a spokesperson provided a statement to Nine.com.au.
“In light of the allegations that have been reported, we have paused our activities with the players involved.
“As this matter is currently the subject of a police investigation, Volkswagen Group Australia will not comment further at this time.”
At the time of publishing, no brands have pulled away from club. Just individual players and activations.
B&T has spoken to one industry insider who said as long as a club is transparent with its processes and are upfront about the situation, it shouldn’t lose any sponsors.
However, REA Group, QBE and Origin Energy are all monitoring the situation.
B&T has contacted the Sydney Swans for comment.
