Nike reportedly canceled a recent release of collaborative UNDERCOVER sneakers in China earlier this month due to a political Instagram post by UNDERCOVER founder Jun Takahashi, Financial Times reports. The post, which has since been deleted, was in support of Hong Kong protests against a pending extradition bill that many insist will violate citizens’ rights. Along with a picture of protesters, Takahashi’s post was captioned, “no extradition to China.” Following backlash on social media, the post was deleted as UNDERCOVER said it was an “individual opinion” shared by mistake.
Chinese retailer YYSports took to social media to reveal that Nike sent them an “urgent notice” following the UNDERCOVER Instagram post, resulting in the cancelation of the sneaker’s June 14 release. Additional Chinese stores pulled the shoes as well, while online vendor Douniu, for example, removed all UNDERCOVER-related products because of “special reasons.” No further explanation was given.
Nike has yet to officially comment on the reported cancelation of the UNDERCOVER release in China.
Hong Kong has been ridden with protesters in recent weeks surrounding a possible bill that would allow China to extradite Hong Kong residents to be put on trial. The bill his been temporarily put on hold.
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- Source: Financial Times
