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ARLINGTON, Texas - The Texas Rangers have decided to renew their partnership with Papa John’s, making them the first professional sports team to re-establish ties with the troubled pizza chain.
The deal means the return of the popular half-priced pizza where fans are given 50 percent off of their Papa John’s order if the team scores seven or more runs during the previous night’s game.
Founder John Schnatter resigned as company chair last month and apologized for using the N-word during a media training conference call.
But during an Associated Press interview, he said he believes he can make a comeback. Schnatter said it was a mistake to step down and he thinks he can return as the face of the company in its advertising once the public understands the context of his comment.
The Rangers issued a statement saying it believes Papa John’s has taken meaningful steps to address the language used by Schnatter.
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said last month his team will not suspend its ties to the pizza chain.
As for the desire to return to a visible role prompting Papa John’s in advertising and marketing efforts, the company has not issued a comment on that.