Fansided

Pepsi and CEO Indra Nooyi issue statement on NFL, Roger Goodell

By Mike Dyce

Aug 27, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Fans watch from the Pepsi Porch during the game between the Detroit Tigers and the New York Yankees at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 27, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Fans watch from the Pepsi Porch during the game between the Detroit Tigers and the New York Yankees at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Corporate sponsors everywhere are evaluating their relationship with the NFL in the wake of the domestic violence scandal involving former Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice and the child abuse scandal involving Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson. There is also the disturbing mishandling of the Ray Rice investigation on the league and commissioner Roger Goodell’s behalf.

Some sponsors have suspended their relationship, like Radisson with the Vikings. Anheuser-Busch sent out a scathing statement that sent some shockwaves through the league.

Now Pepsi and CEO Indra Nooyi have issued a statement. Here is the statement in full, via ESPN’s Darren Rovell:

“I am a mother, a wife, and a passionate football fan. I am deeply disturbed that the repugnant behavior of a few players and the NFL’s acknowledged mishandling of these issues, is casting a cloud over the integrity of the league and the reputations of the majority of players who’ve dedicated their lives to a career they love. When it comes to child abuse and domestic violence, there is no middle ground. The behaviors are disgusting, absolutely unacceptable, and completely fly in the face of the values we at PepsiCo believe in and cherish.

“Given PepsiCo’s long-standing partnership with the NFL, I know Roger Goodell. We have worked together for many years. I know him to be a man of integrity, and I am confident that he will do the right thing for the league in light of the serious issues it is facing.

“Over the past several days, it is increasing apparent that the NFL is starting to treat these issues with the seriousness they deserve. Hiring former FBI Director Robert Mueller to conduct a thorough investigation is a positive step, as is hiring three prominent women with significant, relevant expertise and assigning another, who is an NFL official, to help shape its domestic violence policies. These individuals must now be given the necessary time to review all relevant facts so that corrective actions can be taken, and well-tailored and effective policies against domestic violence and child abuse can be implemented immediately.

“The reality for Commissioner Goodell and the NFL is that they now have an opportunity to effect positive change with the situation presented to them. I urge them to seize this moment. How they handle these cases going forward can help shape how we, as a nation, as a society, and as individuals treat domestic violence and child abuse.”

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