American professional cyclist Quinn Simmons was suspended by his team, Trek-Segafredo, this week for simply saying on Twitter that he supports President Donald Trump. His seemingly benign tweets were enough to get him dropped – and enough for “Superman” actor Dean Cain to take notice.
I like talented young bike racers as much as anyone, but I refused to cheer for anyone who supports a racist, hateful fascist like @QuinnSimmons9 does. I am officially rooting for everyone else. pic.twitter.com/FvYavmNULl
— Peter Flax (@Pflax1) September 30, 2020
American Cyclist Quinn Simmons Tweets Trump Support
Yahoo News reported that the young American cyclist found himself in hot water after he responded to comments made on Twitter by Dutch cycling journalist Jose Been.
“My dear American friends, I hope this horrible presidency ends for you. And for us as (former?) allies too,” Been wrote. “If you follow me and support Trump, you can go. There is zero excuse to follow or vote for the vile, horrible man.”
19-year-old Simmons responded by writing “Bye” alongside a dark-skinned waving hand emoji.
Then another Twitter user responded to this by writing, “Apparently a Trumper.”
To which Simmons replied, “That’s right” alongside an American flag emoji.
That’s right 🇺🇸
— Quinn Simmons (@QuinnSimmons9) September 30, 2020
Trek-Segafredo Suspends Quinn Simmons
On Wednesday night, team Trek-Segafredo addressed Simmons comments and his use of a black hand emoji in a statement:
“While we support the right to free speech, we will hold people accountable for their words and actions. Regrettably, Simmons made statements online that we feel are divisive, incendiary, and detrimental to the team, professional cycling, its fans, and the positive future we hope to help create for the sport. In response, he will not be racing for Trek-Segafredo until further notice.”
Related: Professor Says She Hopes Trump Supporters ‘Die Before The Election’ – It Immediately Backfires
Trek-Segafredo response to public comments made by Quinn Simmons pic.twitter.com/ygqYjy8FWz
— Lidl-Trek (@LidlTrek) September 30, 2020
Cyclist Speaks Out On Trek-Segafredo Suspension
Quinn Simmons has since issued an apology for using a dark-skinned emoji, saying that he was not trying to be racist.
“As an American rider, I have always been proud to represent my country. Riding for an American team has been a lifelong dream. A big reason I chose this team was because of the American values behind it,” Simmons said. “To those who found the colour of the emoji racist, I can promise that I did not mean for it to be interpreted that way. I would like to apologize to everyone who found this offensive as I strongly stand against racism in any form.”
To his credit, the teenager did not apologize for his politics, instead urging people to be more open minded to those who have different political views.
“To anyone who disagrees with me politically, that is fine. I won’t hate you for it. I only ask the same,” said Simmons, who only joined the Trek-Segafredo team earlier this year.
‘Superman’ Himself Dean Cain Comes To Quinn Simmons’ Rescue
Simmons has since been getting support from conservatives who feel that he was unfairly punished for supporting the president.
One such conservative is former “Superman” star Dean Cain, who rushed to defend Quinn Simmons on Twitter.
“What a joke,” Cain wrote. “Trek-Segafredo should apologize to Quinn Simmons immediately, and reinstate him. Although why would he want to ride for a group that doesn’t support the First Amendment?”
Related: ‘Superman’ Dean Cain To Star In New ‘Obamagate’ Movie
https://twitter.com/RealDeanCain/status/1311717018479910914
We would have to agree with Dean Cain on this one. Liberals can say whatever crazy political things they want to without facing any repercussions these days.
However, conservatives face the prospect of losing their jobs and livelihoods if they make even the simplest of pro-Trump comments.
Trek-Segafredo really does owe the young cyclist an apology. But, knowing how liberals are, Quinn Simmons likely won’t be getting one anytime soon.