Statement from adidas America

PORTLAND, Ore., November 21, 2001-Ross McMullin, President and Chief Executive Officer of adidas America Inc., told employees today that he was recently diagnosed with colon cancer. As part of his treatment, he will undergo surgery in the middle of December. Mr. McMullin expects to return to the office in early January following his surgery and a recovery period of two to three weeks.

Commenting on this announcement, Mr. McMullin added: "My doctors and I are very optimistic about a full recovery and I plan to be back at work January 2nd. In the short period that I am away from the office I will be in close contact with my senior management team as we continue to push forward our growth strategy in North America."

Herbert Hainer, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of adidas-Salomon, commented: "We are fully supportive of Ross and look forward to having him back at full-strength after a few weeks of rest and recovery. We have a great senior management team at adidas America and we are making important strides in the North American markets."