Manchester United terminate Aeroflot sponsorship amid Ukraine conflict

Manchester United have terminated their sponsorship with the Russian airline Aeroflot amid the conflict in Ukraine.

United said in a statement: “In light of events in Ukraine, we have withdrawn Aeroflot’s sponsorship rights.

“We share the concerns of our fans around the world and extend our sympathies to those affected."

United's deal with Aeroflot was due to expire this year. Aeroflot were prevented from flying to the UK this week and Russia invaded Ukraine in the early hours of Thursday morning.

A season ticket holder wrote to the club on Friday morning seeking clarification on the Aeroflot sponsorship, which was secured in 2013 and then renewed in 2017 by Richard Arnold, now the United chief executive.

The response the season ticket holder received from the club read: "Our commercial partnership agreements are between Manchester United and the brands involved, not with any individual owner or related parties.

"In relation to the specific situation referred to in your email, we hope you can understand that, as a football club with fans from many different countries and cultures, Manchester United does not take positions on geopolitical issues."