Kellogg Co. has confirmed that it will not renew Michael Phelps' sponsorship contract, claiming his recent behavior is "not consistent with the image of Kellogg."
- February 6, 2009
AceShowbiz -
Cereal and snack maker Kellogg Co. has decided not to renew its contract with Michael Phelps due to his marijuana-smoking picture which was made public by News of the World on late Saturday, January 31. A confirmation on the contract severance has been made by the company's spokeswoman on Thursday, February 5.
"We originally built the relationship with Michael, as well as the other Olympic athletes, to support our association with the U.S. Olympic team," the spokeswoman said in a statement. "Michael's most recent behavior is not consistent with the image of Kellogg. His contract expires at the end of February and we have made a decision not to extend his contract."
On the same day, USA Swimming, the sport's governing body in the U.S., also suspended Michael Phelps from competition for three months. The record-breaking Olympian swimmer, additionally, was denied financial support for three months by USA Swimming.
"This is not a situation where any anti-doping rule was violated, but we decided to send a strong message to Michael because he disappointed so many people, particularly the hundreds of thousands of USA Swimming member kids who look up to him as a role model and a hero," the federation explained, adding, "Michael has voluntarily accepted this reprimand and has committed to earn back our trust."
Unlike Kellogg Co., Speedo and luxury watchmaker Omega have previously confirmed to stand by Phelps, stating they will still use him as their celebrity spokesperson.
