Hugo Boss says partnership with brand ambassador Joseph Schooling remains 'strong'

SINGAPORE — Hugo Boss said its partnership with national swimmer Joseph Schooling remains "strong and unwavered", a day after Singapore's sole Olympic gold medalist admitted to using cannabis.

German luxury fashion brand's Southeast Asia managing director Steven Lam told Marketing Interactive on Wednesday (31 August) that Hugo Boss is supportive of its first Singaporean ambassador. While Schooling has made a mistake, he has taken ownership of it, which is more important, Lam added.

"Over the years, he has always been a positive influence in and out of the pool. He has inspired many kids to believe in themselves, to work hard, and to chase their dreams," Lam said of the 27-year-old athlete.

"We have taught future generations that it’s okay to make mistakes, to own up, but you will have to take responsibility and more importantly, fix it."

While it would be a long road ahead for Schooling, Hugo Boss believes that the sportsman will show and "make good his promise to rebuild the trust with the people who believe in him".

Yahoo News Singapore has reached out to Hugo Boss and other brands that Schooling is representing, including Yakult and Toyota. His appointments at TAG Heuer and Canon ended last year, as did his tie-up with DBS Bank early this year.

Schooling had confessed to having consumed cannabis overseas in May, when he was on short-term leave from national service to train and participate in the SEA Games in Vietnam.

While he did not test positive for the drug, he admitted to using it while overseas in May, according to the Ministry of Defence.

Schooling will not be eligible for leave or disruption to train or compete while serving his national service, and will be placed on a supervised urine test regime for six months.

The swimmer, whose father died last year, apologised for his actions on Tuesday night, "I am sorry that my actions have caused hurt to everyone around me, especially to my family and the young fans who look up to me. I gave in to a moment of weakness after going through a very tough period of my life."

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