Leeds Rhinos' home looks set to undergo a name change after the brand associated with the stadium announced they would be removing all association with the venue and Yorkshire County Cricket Club.
After the cricket club announced that no disciplinary action would be taken against anyone following allegations of racism by former player Azeem Rafiq, a number of key sponsors and partners have expressed their dissatisfaction.
A report by Yorkshire found Rafiq had been a victim of "racial harassment and bullying" at the club, but no disciplinary proceedings would be brought against any player, employee or executive.
That has led to the Emerald Group, who lend their name to the stadium for both rugby and cricket purposes, issuing a statement on Wednesday insisting they have withdrawn their support as a sponsor of Yorkshire, as well as removing their brand association with the stadium.
They said: "We have today taken the decision to remove our brand association with Yorkshire County Cricket Club and Headingley Stadium.
"We do not tolerate any form of racism or discriminatory behaviour and the damaging effects this has. Our intention remains to continue a financial commitment to the stadium itself, which is also the home of Leeds Rhinos rugby, as we believe this supports the aims of diversity and inclusion in sport along with a range of charitable community endeavours.
"Emerald will however no longer sponsor Yorkshire County Cricket Club. We hope that YCCC will listen and respond with serious action to eradicate racism from the club and uphold the values we all expect."
There is good news for the Rhinos in the fact that the financial commitment Emerald provides to the stadium remains intact, suggesting there will be no major crisis for the Super League club to navigate.
But in 2022, it appears they will be playing at a stadium with a different name.
