Kanye West, now formally known as Ye, plans to part ways with adidas and Gap at the end of his contract with the two companies.
Over the past few months, the entrepreneur and rapper has engaged in several public feuds with the two partnering companies. Last week, Ye took to Instagram to vent about adidas’ decision to release branded products without his consent or knowledge. Meanwhile, he has called out Gap for imitating the aesthetic of YEEZY GAP ENGINEERED BY BALENCIAGA across its mainline styles — an accusation he has also levied against adidas.
“It’s time for me to go it alone. I made the companies money. The companies made me money. We created ideas that will change apparel forever. Like the round jacket, the foam runner, the slides that have changed the shoe industry. Now it’s time for Ye to make the new industry. No more companies standing in between me and the audience,” Ye told Bloomberg.
While Ye wishes to go separate ways, he is obligated to continue working with the two companies unless a buy-out is agreed upon. His contract with adidas is expected to expire in 2026, whereas the one with Gap is set to end in 2030.
“No one should be held in that position where people can steal from them and say we’re just paying you to shut up,” he added. “That destroys innovation.”