Firm to pull West Brom sponsorship after Anelka gesture

Property website Zoopla says it will end its sponsorship deal with West Brom at the end of the current season due to Nicolas Anelka’s 'quenelle' gesture.

In a statement, Zoopla said it had been “reviewing its position over the past few weeks in light of the actions of striker, Nicolas Anelka, during the match against West Ham over the Christmas period and has decided to focus its attention on other marketing activities after this season”.

Zoopla was unhappy at the continuing presence of Anelka in the team while his actions were investigated by the Football Association.

It was also claimed that Zoopla had requested Anelka play in an unbranded shirt during the Barclays Premier League game against Everton on Monday night.

There has been no confirmation of that but the company, which is co-owned by Jewish businessman Alex Chesterton, is to end its support after its obligations for this season end.

A statement from the company read: “Zoopla has been reviewing its position over the past few weeks in light of the actions of striker, Nicolas Anelka, during the match against West Ham over the Christmas period and has decided to focus its attention on other marketing activities after this season.”

Lawrence Hall, head of communications for Zoopla, said: “Through our sponsorship of West Bromwich Albion we are pleased to have supported the local community and charities.

“In recent weeks, however, we have decided to re-evaluate this sponsorship and as a result we will focus our attention on other marketing activities from the end of the season.”