In a move applauded by supporters of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, Puma has announced the termination of its support for the Israeli Football Association, emphasizing that the decision is solely driven by “business reasons.” The sportswear company clarified that the resolution to conclude its collaboration was already finalized in 2022, as reported by The Associated Press.
As part of a strategy review conducted at the close of 2022, Puma disclosed its decision to cease outfitting the Israeli team starting next year. A spokeswoman for the company stated, “While two newly signed national teams — including a new statement team — will be announced later this year and in 2024, the contracts of some federations such as Serbia and Israel will expire in 2024.” These determinations align with the regular timelines for team jersey design and development, according to the spokeswoman.
The deal with Israel, inked in 2018, had triggered calls for a boycott of Puma. The BDS movement, led by Palestinians, urged the boycott before October, accusing Puma of supporting illegal Israeli settlements in the West Bank through its association with the Israeli Football Association, which encompasses teams from the occupied Palestinian territory.
*Additional reporting by AFP and Reuters.*
a move applauded by supporters of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, Puma has announced the termination of its support for the Israeli Football Association, emphasizing that the decision is solely driven by “business reasons.” The sportswear company clarified that the resolution to conclude its collaboration was already finalized in 2022, as reported by The Associated Press.
As part of a strategy review conducted at the close of 2022, Puma disclosed its decision to cease outfitting the Israeli team starting next year. A spokeswoman for the company stated, “While two newly signed national teams — including a new statement team — will be announced later this year and in 2024, the contracts of some federations such as Serbia and Israel will expire in 2024.” These determinations align with the regular timelines for team jersey design and development, according to the spokeswoman.
The deal with Israel, inked in 2018, had triggered calls for a boycott of Puma. The BDS movement, led by Palestinians, urged the boycott before October, accusing Puma of supporting illegal Israeli settlements in the West Bank through its association with the Israeli Football Association, which encompasses teams from the occupied Palestinian territory.
Additional reporting by AFP and Reuters.
