A long-time sponsor of League Championship side Leeds United "is withdrawing its support of the club," saying association with Owner Massimo Cellino has become an "embarrassment," according to Phil Hay of the YORKSHIRE EVENING POST.
In an email sent to Cellino, Crosswater Holdings Chair David Hance told Leeds' owner he had "had enough of how you run our famous club" and said the company would not consider further sponsorship deals while Cellino remained in charge at Elland Road. Crosswater, a firm which supplies bathroom fittings, "has held commercial agreements with United for the past decade and is currently in the middle of a two-year deal which includes sponsorship of the tunnel at Elland Road." Hance said that "Crosswater would now look for an early exit from its existing contract." Crosswater’s move to end financial backing "came hours after the latest managerial change under Cellino at Leeds." United announced the departure of head coach Steve Evans on Tuesday and the club is continuing its search for a replacement. Hance’s email said, "After 10 years supporting the club as a true fan, and longest-serving sponsor, I have had enough of how you run our famous club. For my brand to be associated with Leeds United is now an embarrassment to both me and my customers. As always, I will follow the club all over the UK but until you exit the club I or any of my employees will not return in a commercial capacity. I wish your task of recruiting another manager all the best. I certainly would not work with you or for you." Leeds has "been asked to respond to Hance’s comments" (YORKSHIRE EVENING POST, 6/1).
