Dutch speed skater Jutta Leerdam has been cleared of ambush marketing after revealing her Nike sports bra following her 1000m win at the Winter Olympics.
The 27-year-old, engaged to influencer-turned-boxer Jake Paul, was overcome with emotion after crossing the finish line and winning Gold on February 9. She also won Silver in the Women’s 500m on February 15.
After her 1000m victory, Leerdam unzipped her tight skating suit, showing a white Nike sports bra. Experts said this could have been worth a $1 million payday thanks to her sponsorship.
Some critics claimed it was ambush marketing because her suit is sponsored by FILA. However, the IOC disagreed. Anne-Sophie Voumard, IOC TMS Managing Director, said, “It is normal practice for speed skaters to unzip their suits after a race. This is not a case of ambush marketing.”
Ambush marketing is when companies promote products at events without paying official sponsorship fees. The IOC takes it seriously to protect official partners and the Olympic brand.
Nike celebrated the moment on Instagram, writing: “When you’re this fast, you don’t ask for permission.”
Jake Paul was visibly emotional in the stands, posting videos of Leerdam’s win and calling it “one of the most important sporting moments ever.”
Leerdam now returns home with two Olympic medals and no penalties over her celebratory reveal.
