Ye, formerly known as Kanye West
, has always been a force in his career, relentlessly chasing success. From headline-making controversies to viral moments, every move he makes seems to lead straight to fame. His brand, Yeezy, became a symbol of that success, boasting major collaborations with industry giants like Adidas. However, just when everything appeared unstoppable, his unapologetic views sent shockwaves through the industry. The partnership that began in 2013 took an unexpected turn—one that no one saw coming.
When controversies grow louder, success often fades into the background. The spotlight that once celebrated achievement can just as quickly shift, leaving even the most unstoppable forces to face unexpected turns.
From hype to history, Ye’s partnership with Adidas ended in controversy
Chief Financial Officer Harm Ohlmeyer declared “There is not one Yeezy shoe left, it has all been sold and that episode is behind us
,”
during a press conference on Wednesday after Adidas reported results, as reported by Reuters
. He confirmed that Adidas has officially sold its final pair of Yeezy sneakers. The once-lucrative collaboration with Ye—came to an abrupt end following his antisemitic remarks.
Despite its immense profitability, the brand had no choice but to sever ties, marking the definitive close of a controversial chapter.
Adidas has officially closed its battle with Ye, years after his antisemitic remarks in 2022 led to the abrupt end of their highly profitable Yeezy collaboration. The fallout resulted in Adidas’ first annual loss in over 30 years.
Despite this, Adidas generated significant revenue by selling off the remaining inventory and donated portions of the proceeds to anti-hate organizations. However, his explosive posts on X ignited a firestorm of controversy, allegedly prompting him to retreat to Japan for a brief escape.
While some speculated about his sudden trip to a place known for endless possibilities, a source suggests it was largely driven by government-backed scrutiny—something Japan has yet to fully reckon with.
Why did Ye relocate to Japan for a brief escape?
An insider told In Touch that Ye has little concern for the traditional American dream, as he has established a sense of stability in Japan. After facing relentless scrutiny and backlash in the US
for his controversial statements, his time abroad offers a stark contrast. According to the source, life there is far more relaxed for him.“He doesn’t get hassled and he can be himself,”
the insider revealed.
Ye has reportedly spent much of the year travelling alongside Bianca Censori, frequently making Tokyo a key stop. His repeated visits have even led to valuable connections, deepening his admiration for the culture. According to an insider, Japan offers him a sense of peace that America never could. The source also alleged that Ye no longer feels the same passion for the US, worn down by constant scrutiny and criticism.
What are your thoughts on Adidas selling off its Yeezy stock after Ye’s antisemitic remarks?