Radisson Suspends Minnesota Vikings Sponsorship
MINNEAPOLIS (AP/WCCO)- The Radisson logo was prominently displayed behind Rick Spielman and Mike Zimmer during Monday's press conference on the Adrian Peterson child abuse allegations.
Monday evening, Radisson said it's suspending its limited sponsorship of the Vikings while it evaluates the facts and circumstances of the case.
In a statement, Minnetonka-based Radisson, part of the family owned hospitality and travel company Carlson, said it "takes this matter very seriously particularly in light of our long-standing commitment to the protection of children."
"We are closely following the situation and effective immediately, Radisson is suspending its limited sponsorship of the Minnesota Vikings while we evaluate the facts and circumstances," the company's statement read.
Radisson's sponsorship includes a press banner that is behind those speaking at Vikings news conferences. On Monday, the banner was behind Vikings general manager Rick Spielman as he discussed the team's decision to reinstate Peterson after benching him for Sunday's game against the New England Patriots.
Peterson is accused of using a wooden switch to spank his 4-year-old son. The running back says he was using a form of discipline his father used on him as a boy.
"Based on our long-standing relationship, the Minnesota Vikings respectfully honored Radisson's request," a team spokesman said in an email Monday night.
On Tuesday, Gov. Mark Dayton gave a statement on the situation. He said that Peterson should have been suspended from playing until the matter was resolved in court.
The governor also called Peterson's actions "an embarrassment" to the Vikings and the state of Minnesota.
