Subway franchisees are demanding the removal of Megan Rapinoe from their ads due to her controversial actions, including kneeling during the National Anthem. The ads, featuring Rapinoe kicking a burrito out of a customer’s hands, have sparked mixed responses, leading to customer boycotts and discontent among franchisees, particularly in red states.

A Wisconsin franchisee displayed a customer’s note urging a Subway boycott until Rapinoe is fired, highlighting the negative impact on businesses. The North American Association of Subway Franchisees communicated concerns to Subway’s top management, calling for the removal of Rapinoe’s ads to address operator discontent.

Experts criticize Subway’s lack of due diligence in choosing Rapinoe as an endorser, emphasizing the need for less divisive advertising and more focus on product improvements. The controversy adds to Rapinoe’s history of sparking backlash with her actions and statements, raising questions about Subway’s endorsement decisions.