THE BLOG BY CPD FOOTBALL | The World of Indian football and beyond by Chris Punnakkattu Daniel

FC St. Pauli release statement on comments by Under Armour CEO Kevin Plank

FC St. Pauli

German Bundesliga 2 side FC St. Pauli has issued an official statement as a reaction to comments by Under Armour CEO Kevin Plank on new US President Donald Trump. Under Armour is the club’s kit sponsor.

FC St. Pauli Statement

FC St. Pauli would like to state its position regarding the comments by Kevin Plank, CEO of kit supplier Under Armour, which have been a subject of discussion in and around the club and the media in recent days.

The club had already expressed a critical view of a visit by Kevin Plank to US president Donald Trump in a letter to the Managing Director Europe at Under Armour around two weeks ago. Club officials have now noted, with some irritation, the comments made by Plank on Donald Trump’s strategic direction (“To have such a pro-business president is something that is a real asset for the country”).

“FC St. Pauli can only agree with Steph Curry, the NBA’s sharpest three-point shooter and equity holder of our kit supplier, in his assessment of the new US president. There is no more to be said about this person. Further, FCSP would wish Under Armour founder Kevin Plank to reconsider his statement, precisely in view of the company’s many employees of migrant background, who bring many assests to his company. Because, dear kit supplier, the saying ‘Protect Our House’ also holds true for FC St. Pauli and its values,” said club chairman Oke Göttlich.

Irrespective of the good and trustful working relationship between FC St. Pauli and its kit supplier, the club will continue to take a critical position in future when it appears necessary.

For their part, Under Armour have clearly stated that they have teammates from different religions, nationalities, genders and sexual orientations, adding that at Under Armour, their diversity is their strength.