New York/São Paulo (CNN Business) Nike said it cut ties with Neymar last year because the Brazilian soccer superstar refused to cooperate with an inconclusive investigation into sexual assault allegations made by one of the company's employees. The sports apparel giant confirmed in a statement to CNN Business late Thursday that its decision stemmed from accusations a Nike employee brought to the company in 2018. Nike NKE said the employee initially wanted to keep the incident confidential, but in 2019 decided to pursue an investigation. Nike did not name the employee, and CNN Business does not generally name individuals who claim to be the victims of sexual assaults. Nike said that the investigation was "inconclusive," adding that "it would be inappropriate for Nike to make an accusatory statement without being able to provide supporting facts."

Source: CNN May 28, 2021 11:26 UTC