Investors have filed a class action lawsuit against Adidas, alleging executives knew about the problematic behavior of Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, for years before the company ended its partnership with the rapper.
Adidas cut ties with Ye in October after the rapper made a series of antisemitic remarks. In their suit, filed, shareholders allege the company in 2018 knew about the risks of partnering with the rapper and failed to take precautionary measures to limit negative exposure.
Adidas announced its partnership with Kanye West in November of 2013. The first Yeezys debuted in February of 2015. The shoes surged in popularity, even as the rapper came under fire in 2018 over remarks he made about slavery.