The “Quenelle” incident involving Nicolas Anelka continues to linger. In December, Anelka stirred controversy by celebrating his first goal of the season with a gesture imitating the famous move by comedian Dieudonné. The controversy resonated both in England and France, and despite the passage of time, a resolution remains elusive.
While the English Federation is yet to render its verdict, West Bromwich is facing repercussions for its striker’s actions. Anelka, who did not have the club’s logo on his jersey during the incident, is causing the club considerable fallout. Zoopla, one of West Bromwich’s sponsors co-owned by Jewish businessman Alex Chesterman, promptly announced the termination of its partnership with the Baggies at the season’s end.
This decision comes after Zoopla had already issued a threat to withdraw its sponsorship at the end of the previous week. The aftermath of Anelka’s gesture continues to unfold, leaving the football community and sponsors grappling with the implications and consequences.