West Ham sponsors suspend lucrative deal in huge financial hit following Kurt Zouma cat attack video
VITALITY have suspended their sponsorship of West Ham following video clips emerging of Kurt Zouma kicking and slapping his cat.
The footage, revealed by SunSport earlier this week, has prompted Vitality to review their relationship with the Hammers.
A statement from the insurance and investment company, revealed by the BBC’s Simon Stone, read: “We were very distressed by the video we have seen of Kurt Zouma.
“At Vitality, we condemn animal cruelty and violence of any kind.
“We are hugely disappointed by the judgement subsequently shown by the club in response to this incident.
“As such, we are suspending our sponsorship of West Ham United with immediate effect.
“We will now be further engaging with the club to understand what actions they will be taking to address the situation.”
Another of the Hammers’ partners Kissimmee are also ‘evaluating’ their relationship with the club.
A statement posted on social media last night read: “It was disheartening to learn that the player Kurt Zouma was part of the starting line in West Ham United’s game tonight.
“As we wait for further information from WHU, we will be evaluating our relationship and sponsorship with the club.”
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