While appearing on CNBC’s “Halftime Report” program on Monday (February 7), Under Armour CEO Kevin Plank spoke about his company’s tough 4Q16 earnings report, and as follow up, was asked his opinion about President Donald Trump. Rather than speak about him neutrally, Plank gave him a whole-hearted endorsement of the new President, in sharp contrast to competitors Nike and Adidas, who haven’t spoken about Trump generally, but did issue letters criticizing his travel ban.
Star signee Stephen Curry responded to Plank’s comments and indicated he would leave the brand if Plank’s comments translated to a change in Under Armour’s core company values. “If I can say the leadership is not in line with my core values,” said Curry, “then there is no amount of money, there is no platform I wouldn’t jump off if it wasn’t in line with who I am.
Ballerina Misty Copeland has now weighed in on Instagram and indicated she, too, was upset about his comments. On Instagram, she published a statement that reads as follows:
“I have always appreciated the great support and platform that Under Armour has given me to represent my community, gender, and career on the world stage. However, I strongly disagree with Kevin Plank’s recent comments in support of Trump as recently reported. Those of you who have supported and followed my career know that the one topic I’ve never backed away from speaking openly about is the importance of diversity and inclusion. It is imperative to me that my partners and sponsors share this belief. I have spoken at length with Kevin privately about the matter, but as someone who takes my responsibility as a role model very seriously, it is important to me that he, and UA, take public action to clearly communicate and reflect our common values in order for us to effectively continue to work towards our shared goal of trying to motivate ALL people to be their best selves.”
In a statement to the press following Plank’s appearance, the company did its best to walk back Plank’s upbeat tone on Trump. “We have engaged with both the prior and the current administrations in advocating on business issues that we believe are in the best interests of our consumers, teammates and shareholders,” wrote an Under Armour spokesperson. “We have always been committed to developing innovative ways to support and invest in American jobs and manufacturing.”
Addressing the travel ban specifically, the spokesperson wrote, “We believe in advocating for fair trade, an inclusive immigration policy that welcomes the best and the brightest and those seeking opportunity in the great tradition of our country, and tax reform that drives hiring to help create new jobs globally, across America and in Baltimore.” Under Armour is headquartered in Baltimore.
