Adidas suspends contract with Tyson Gay

FRANKFURT - Reuters

American sprinter Tyson Gay has tested positive for a banned substance it was announced July 14, 2013 and has pulled out of next month's World Championships. AFP Photo

Sportswear company Adidas has suspended its contract with Tyson Gay after the former double world sprint champion failed an out-of-competition dope test, it said on Monday.
 
"We are shocked by these recent allegations, and even if we presume his innocence until proven otherwise, our contract with Tyson is currently suspended," a spokesman for the Germany-based company said.
 
Under its agreements with athletes, Adidas has the right to terminate the contract "if the athlete is found guilty of the possession or use of drugs or any other prohibited substance by the relevant governing sports body having jurisdiction over the athlete."
 
Also on Sunday, former world 100 metres record holder Asafa Powell and Olympic 4x100 metres relay silver medallist Sherone Simpson said they had both tested positive for the stimulant oxilophrine at last month's Jamaican championships.