Written By Lisa Murimi

US model Bella Hadid has voiced her disapproval after starring in an Adidas campaign criticized for its “unintentional” connections to the 1972 Munich Olympics.

Hadid, who is half Palestinian, expressed her dismay over the campaign’s lack of sensitivity.

“I am shocked, I am upset, and I am disappointed in the lack of sensitivity that went into this campaign,” Hadid stated.

The campaign for the SL72 trainers referenced the 1972 Munich Olympics, where 11 Israeli athletes and a German police officer were killed by the Palestinian group Black September.

Adidas apologized and confirmed to AFP that Hadid had been removed from the campaign. The model, a vocal supporter of Palestinians, emphasized her unawareness of the historical connection.

“In advance of the campaign release, I had no knowledge of the historical connection to the atrocious events in 1972,” Hadid clarified on Instagram.

She condemned the campaign, adding, “Had I been made aware, from the bottom of my heart, I would never have participated.” Hadid also highlighted her commitment to peace, denouncing all forms of hate, including antisemitism.

Adidas acknowledged the mistake and announced it would revise the campaign, apologizing for any distress caused. The controversy sparked mixed reactions, with some defending Hadid and others calling for a boycott of Adidas.

The conflict in Gaza, marked by ongoing violence, adds to the sensitivity of such issues. Hadid continues to advocate for peace and the liberation of Palestinians, emphasizing that antisemitism has no place in their struggle.