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Shorts: Amazon removes NFL team's merchandise from website

July 09, 2020 15:22 IST

The logo of the NFL team Washington Redskins

IMAGE: A Washington Redskins football team logo is seen on a shirt at a sporting goods store in Bailey's Crossroads, Virginia, USA June 24, 2020. Photograph: Kevin Lamarque/File/Reuters

Amazon.com Inc is pulling Washington Redskins merchandise from its website, with sellers given 48 hours to review and remove any products flagged by the e-commerce giant, according to a note sent to sellers by the company.

An Amazon spokeswoman confirmed the move by the company.

Under mounting pressure from sponsors and Native American rights groups, Washington Redskins owner Dan Snyder said last week he would consider changing the name of the National Football League team whose roots date back to the 1930s.

 

Controversy over the team's name, which is widely seen as a racial slur against Native Americans, resurfaced in recent weeks amid widespread racial and social justice protests across the United States after the death of George Floyd in police custody.

Amazon's action follows that of other retailers such as Walmart Inc, Target Corp and Nike Inc.

Top sponsors, including PepsiCo Inc and FedEx Corp, who have the naming rights to the NFL team's Landover, Maryland, stadium, called for a change last week.

British Athletes Commission calls for investigation of abuse claims

The British Athletes Commission (BAC), which represents the country's Olympic and Paralympic athletes, has called for an investigation of allegations of bullying and abuse within British gymnastics.

British media reports have cited allegations from a number of ex-gymnasts describing abusive behaviour from coaches and staff.

“We are deeply troubled to hear the comments made by some British athletes relating to culture and welfare issues within British Gymnastics," the BAC said in a statement on Tuesday.

"No athlete should be expected to tolerate an abuse of power or poor practice. The performance environment should be a place of mutual trust and respect where athletes are supported in achieving their best.

"The BAC is worried to hear of athlete experiences which appear not to reflect these standards and would urge that any allegations are investigated thoroughly."

The sport's governing body, British Gymnastics, said it was encouraging any gymnasts, past or present, who has concerns to contact their Integrity Unit.

"British Gymnastics condemns any behaviour which is harmful to the wellbeing of our gymnasts. Such behaviours are completely contrary to our standards of safe coaching. Our Positive Coaching Behaviours programme, which is mandatory for all coaches, sets out clearly why such behaviours are harmful and unacceptable.

"Our Integrity Unit investigates all allegations reported to us or identified by our national network of club welfare officers and takes disciplinary action to prevent recurrence."

Source: REUTERS
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