Magic, Lions mull partnership with Papa John’s following slur

The Orlando Magic and the Orlando City Soccer Club have not decided whether to alter their partnerships with Papa John’s, but they denounced the pizza company chairman’s use of a racial slur.

Papa John’s announced late Wednesday that chairman of the board John Schnatter resigned. Forbes reported Schnatter used the N-word during a media training exercise in May.

The Miami Marlins and the Tampa Bay Rays announced Thursday they have suspended business relationships with Papa John’s. Both teams offered Papa John’s promotional discounts to fans.

Major League Baseball and the Baltimore Orioles were among the other professional groups to suspend Papa John’s discount programs.

The Orlando Magic and Orlando City also offer fans Papa John’s discounts.

“We in no way, shape or form condone the reported actions and are monitoring the situation in light of the fact that the company’s chairman has been replaced,” Magic spokesman Joel Glass told the Orlando Sentinel.

Fans received 50 percent off their Papa John’s orders after Magic wins last season.

The team’s partnership is with local franchises and not the national company.

An Orlando City spokesperson said the club is aware of the situation and has not yet made a decision about any changes to the partnership.

Fans get a discount any time Orlando City or Orlando Pride earn a win or draw this season.

While the promotional discounts triggered reaction from numerous pro sports teams, none may face a bigger challenge than the University of Louisville.

Louisville president Neeli Bendapudi said after a board of trustees meeting Thursday the school is evaluating the naming rights to Papa John’s Cardinal Stadium, according to WRDB.com.

The naming rights deal for the football stadium is with Schnatter, not Papa John’s.

The agreement states if he leaves the company, Schnatter can rename the building. His current naming rights contract with the university runs through 2040.