England and Chelsea captain John Terry has
distanced himself from an email touting his name around for
possible commercial endorsements ahead of next year's World Cup
finals.
The email, released by a small marketing company based in
Enfield, Riviera Entertainment, was circulated around the sports
business community.
The company claimed it was identifying suitable commercial
endorsement opportunities for Terry in the period building up to
the finals and beyond.
"John Terry is available to create effective brand awareness and
endorse products and services globally," claimed the firm.
But Terry released a brief statement insisting that the email
had been circulated without his knowledge or permission.
"An email inviting commercial endorsements for me has been
published," declared Terry.
"This email was sent without my authority or knowledge and was
not approved by me (or those advising me). I have nothing further
to say on the matter."
Terry is not in breach of any Football Association rules or any
terms that might be in his contract at Chelsea.
Chelsea are not unduly concerned as Terry is allowed to pursue
any commercial and sponsorship agreements as long as they do not
interfere with his football or cut across any agreements the Blues
have with their own commercial partners.
Elite management, who look after Terry's affairs following his
split from long-term agent Aaron Lincoln in the summer, appointed
Riviera Entertainment to identify suitable commercial
endorsements.
In a news release on Riviera's official website, Terry was
quoted as saying: "There are certain commercial areas which I would
be proud to be associated with.
"Elite are in control of my marketing and promotional rights and
they have identified Riviera as an ideal partner to help secure the
right deals for me going forward."
Russell Edwards, Riviera's commercial manager, said at the time:
"John Terry has a great deal to offer the commercial world and we
already have companies on our books that are interested in being
linked with such a high-profile brand ambassador. With the World
Cup just under nine months away we're expecting a busy winter."
Terry, 28 is also the main face for the Umbro sportswear brand
but has appeared in adverts for Samsung, Nationwide and has been
the face of King of Shaves.
He has a sponsorship deal with football gaming series Pro
Evolution Soccer and appears on the cover of the UK version of Pro
Evolution Soccer 6 with Brazil international Adriano.
