Company Worth Billions Abandoned Michael Phelps, Canceling His Sponsorship During His Career Prime- Here’s Why

Throughout his 25-year competitive swimming career, Michael Phelps participated in five Olympic games. He amassed 28 Olympic medals, including 23 golds, solidifying his position as the most decorated athlete in sports history. 

Just like his victories, many will remember the time when Kellogg’s fired him in 2009. However, many people are still unaware of why the company fired Phelps. The reason behind this was his photo and rumors about the legendary swimmer. 

Michael Phelps and the Kellogg’s controversy over a photo

It happened when pictures of Phelps smoking a marijuana pipe became viral in the media. This sparked a huge uproar and made him the subject of much discussion. After the incident, the company broke its bond with Michael and respectively addressed his image in the world. 

Meanwhile, the company that hired Phelps for Kellogg’s Corn Flakes and Frosted Flakes shared their statement on this subject. They said, “We originally built the relationship with Michael, as well as the other Olympic athletes, to support our association with the US Olympic team… Michael’s most recent behavior is not consistent with the image of Kellogg’s. His contract expires at the end of February, and we have made a decision not to extend his contract.”

READ MORE: “More Than Anybody Else on the Planet”: Michael Phelps Reveals How a Piece of Paper Changed His Swimming Career

In addition, Michael accepted the image and apologized in front of the media. While the other company that had the endorsement deal with him, like Subway, Visa, Speedo, Hilton Hotels, and Omega watches, didn’t change their contracts.

However, his agent also said, “Michael accepts these decisions and understands their point of view. He feels bad he let anyone down. He’s also encouraged by the thousands of comments he’s received from his fans and the support from his many sponsors. He intends to work hard to regain everyone’s trust.”

Joe Rogan on Michael’s controversy 

Well-known podcaster and comedic actor, Joe Rogan, recalled this incident during his “The Joe Rogan Experience.” He added about the laws, calling them “horribly illogical law that is in place because of corruption and propaganda.”

But somehow, Michael Phelps received support from many supporters and well-wishers. In addition, the 23-time Olympic gold medalist swimmer took a hit because he was barred from competing for three months. 

WATCH THIS STORY: When Olympic Legends Usain Bolt, Michael Phelps, Serena Williams, and Others Won Their First Gold Medals

What are your views about this incident?