Electronic Arts (EA) has removed cover star Cristiano Ronaldo’s image from FIFA 19’s social media following rape allegations. The alleged attack was on June 13, 2009 when Ronaldo invited Kathryn Mayorga along with others to his penthouse. Mayorga was changing in a bathroom when Ronaldo approached her and asked for oral sex. Ronaldo then took her into a bedroom where he, allegedly, sexually assaulted her.

Mayorga did not identify Ronaldo in her police report. She was hesitant after being told she could face retaliation, and her actions may seem like an extortion attempt. Her lawsuit claims, "the psychological trauma of the sexual assault, the fear of public humiliation and retaliation and the reiteration of those fears by law enforcement and medical providers left [the] plaintiff terrified and unable to act or advocate for herself." Mayorga’s lawsuit is seeking to void the settlement and nondisclosure agreement she was coerced into signing, which she received $375,000 for her silence.

Ronaldo put out a statement on Twitter. “I firmly deny the accusations being issued against me. Rape is an abominable crime that goes against everything that I am and believe in. Keen as I may be to clear my name, I refuse to feed the media spectacle created by people seeking to promote themselves at my expense.” Then over Instagram Live, he stated, "what they said today, fake -- fake news. They want to promote by my name. It's normal. They want to be famous -- to say my name. Yeah but it's part of the job. I'm a happy man and all, all good." Mayorga’s attorney declined CNN’s request for an interview but did state that Mayorga’s psychological injuries are not fake news.

The EA SPORTS FIFA Twitter and Facebook page used to feature Ronaldo in their banner. Those have now been replaced with the game’s logo. An EA spokesperson stated the banners are updated for certain marketing beats. In response to the allegations, EA stated, “we have seen the concerning report that details allegations against Cristiano Ronaldo. We are closely monitoring the situation, as we expect cover athletes and ambassadors to conduct themselves in a manner that is consistent with EA’s values.”

Ronaldo’s sponsors have also expressed concern. Lifetime sponsor, Nike, stated they are, “deeply concerned by the disturbing allegations and will continue to closely monitor the situation.” Ronaldo stated, “my clear conscious will thereby allow me to await with tranquility the results of any and all investigations.” As for Mayorga, she initially only filled the sexual assault report. Her case was then closed, but has now been reopened. According to ESPN, criminal charges may be unlikely due the amount of time that has passed since the incident, but Ronaldo can be extradited if charged.

Blog

Playing the Same Old Game

EA Concerned Over Ronaldo Allegations - "We expect cover athletes and ambassadors to conduct themselves in a manner that is consistent with EA’s values"