Papa Johns’ founder John Schnatter will step down as CEO following an intense backlash sparked by his criticism of NFL players protesting the National Anthem. The company’s president, Steve Ritchie, will take over as CEO.

Business Insider reports:

Schnatter sparked controversy in November when he slammed NFL leadership over the ongoing national anthem protests. “Leadership starts at the top, and this is an example of poor leadership,” CEO John Schnatter said in a call with investors. […] TRENDING: OUTRAGEOUS! Ohio State University President Sends Ignorant Text Message to Students Following Breonna Taylor Decision -- And a Crazy-Ass Video! Schnatter owns roughly 25% of Papa John’s, and will stay on as chairman after stepping down as CEO in January. According to a press release from the company, he will “pursue his personal passion for entrepreneurship, leadership development and education.” […] Schnatter has moved away from public political discussions following the Obamacare controversy. The CEO donated $1,000 to President Trump’s campaign but did not make any effort to publicly support the politician.

Papa John’s recently warned the NFL their sales are down this year during NFL games.

In November, Papa John’s told the NFL they were pulling ads from the games.

The consumer sentiment is too negative.

Via Bleacher Report:

Pizza chain Papa John’s announced Wednesday that it is pulling its advertising associated with the NFL, according to ESPN’s Darren Rovell. Per Jonathan Maze of Nation’s Restaurant News, Papa John’s founder John Schnatter said sales are down due to “negative consumer sentiment” regarding the company’s relationship with the NFL. Schnatter also called the NFL “an example of poor leadership,” according to Maze.

The pizza entrepreneur is stepping down after speaking the truth. Millions of Americans are furious with NFL players’ decision to disrespect one of the country’s most sacred past times — respecting the National Anthem.

Something tells us this isn’t the last we’ve heard from Schnatter.