Adidas player endorsement contract includes Scientology clause

When an athlete signs a player endorsement contract, he or she can expect to see a number of clauses related to their off-the-pitch conduct included in the deal.

For example, get caught using illegal drugs and the endorsement is likely over.

But following the leaked player endorsement contract of an unnamed Bayern Munich player, it appears Adidas are taking unprecedented steps regarding forfeit clauses. 

According to Der Spiegel, "belonging to any organisation or association which represents the principles of L. Ron Hubbard" would cost the Bayern Munich player his €400,000 deal.

In case there was any doubt as to what "principles" Adidas is referring to, the leaked contract specifically states, "Scientology and other such organisations are incompatible."

Since it's hard to know just how many player endorsement contracts include a similar clause, this may have something to do with the fact that the German government does not recognize Scientology as a religion.

One thing is certain, however: you won't be seeing Tom Cruise at the Allianz Arena.