German sportswear company Adidas has suspended its partnership with the Russian Football Union (RFS).
The decision comes into action with immediate effect and comes in line with a series of those made by sports bodies to cut ties to Russian-affiliated bodies or companies following the war in Ukraine.
The German sportswear giant has served as the country’s kit manufacturer since 2008, designing the shirts for their home World Cup in 2018.
The decision follows that of Manchester United who announced they have ended their £40million deal with Russian-owned airline company Aeroflot.
“In light of events in Ukraine, we have withdrawn Aeroflot’s sponsorship rights. We share the concerns of our fans around the world and extend our sympathies to those affected,” United noted in a statement.
Adidas has suspended its current deal to make uniforms for the Russian National team, according to the @AssociatedPress.
Adidas has been a partner of Russia since 2008. Their deal runs through the end of the year. pic.twitter.com/q0CQu6LLOX
— Darren Rovell (@darrenrovell) March 1, 2022
European football body UEFA also moved the Champions League final from Saint Petersburg to Paris while ending their £34million-per-season partnership with Russian state-owned energy company Gazprom.
They have also banned Russian sides from participating in their club competitions, leading to Spartak Moscow being kicked out of the Europa League.
FIFA has also taken a harsh stance by banning Russia from competing in international fixtures, a sanction other sports are also imposing
