West Ham on Wednesday fined defender Kurt Zouma of the “maximum amount possible” for mistreating his cat, as the RSPCA charity said it had taken care of two of the French international’s animals. The 27-year-old, who played in the Premier League against Watford on Tuesday, has been widely convicted after a video was circulated online in which he dropped, kicked and punched the animal. West Ham released a new statement on Wednesday saying they supported an investigation by animal welfare organization the RSPCA into the case and that Zouma adhered to the process, which included delivering his two cats to the charity for assessment.
“Kurt is deeply sorry and, like everyone at the club, fully understands the deep feelings surrounding the incident and the need to take action,” the club said.
“Apart from the investigation by the RSPCA and pending further sanctions once the outcome of that trial is established, West Ham United can confirm that Kurt Zouma has been given the maximum fine following his actions in the video circulating.
“The player immediately accepted the fine and requested that it be donated to animal welfare charities.”
According to reports, the fine would total around £250,000 ($340,000), with standard Premier League contracts allowing a maximum fine of two weeks’ wages.
The RSPCA, which is working with police on the case, tweeted that the cats were “safe and under our care.”
“Our priority is and has always been the welfare of these cats,” said a spokesperson. “They have been taken for a vet check-up and will remain under our care as long as the investigation continues.
“We are grateful to everyone who raised their concerns about these cats. We had this issue before the video went viral online and are leading the investigation.”
The latest developments came as signers of an online petition calling for Zouma to be prosecuted, capped at 160,000, reflecting growing public anger.
Insurance and investment firm Vitality has announced it is suspending its sponsorship as West Ham’s “official wellness partner”.
“We were very shocked by the video we saw of Kurt Zouma,” the company said in a statement. “At Vitality, we condemn animal cruelty and violence of any kind.
“We are extremely disappointed with the verdict the club has subsequently issued in response to this incident.”
Experience Kissimmee — the club’s “official destination partner” — said it will “evaluate our relationship and sponsorship with the club” in light of the video.
Adidas, the defender’s official clothing supplier, confirmed that the company was investigating the incident.
West Ham had previously said they would handle the matter internally, adding: “We want to make it clear that we do not condone cruelty to animals in any way.”
But Zouma, who previously apologized for his actions, was nevertheless selected by manager David Moyes for Tuesday’s 1-0 win at London Stadium.
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Moyes insisted he was an “animal lover” but was adamant that he should do what was right for his club.
The defender sensed the depth of the feeling as he was relentlessly booed by Watford supporters, with even West Ham fans joining in the booing.
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