It appears that for the good of the country Nike will put aside its need for self promotion in hopes that it will benefit the USA. According to Yahoo Sports News, Nike will allow its swimmers at the Olympics this year to wear Speedo’s LZR Racer in lieu of Nike suits in Beijing.
Dean Stoyer, Nike spokesman, says it wanted to allow swimmers the same opportunity that was extended to them at the U.S. Olympic Trials.
Stoyer said, “It is about putting their performance and their focus first.” Nike has four swimmers heading to the Olympics.
According to the article, Speedo’s LZR Racer has caused quite a stir with its sleek design allowing many records to be broken since it was released in February. The suit has even spawned some lawsuits.
It’s a bold move to allow swimmers that they are sponsoring to essentially endorse someone else. It could be a move that backfires by drawing too much attention to the Speedo chaos. Or if the team turns out victorious, it could be one of the most brilliant things they’ve done to promote their brand.