Michael Jordan and his company have pledged to donate 100million US dollars (£79million) over the next 10 years to organisations engaged in the fight for racial equality and social justice.

The announcement comes after several days of protests in the United States and further afield following the death of George Floyd in Minnesota last week.

In a statement, the Jordan Brand said: “Black lives matter. This isn’t a controversial statement. Until the ingrained racism that allows our country’s institutions to fail is completely eradicated, we will remain committed to protecting and improving the lives of Black people.

“Today, we are announcing that Michael Jordan and the Jordan Brand will be donating $100 million over the next 10 years to organisations dedicated to ensuring racial equality, social justice and greater access to education.”

The 57-year-old Jordan, a six-time NBA champion with the Chicago Bulls, has been back in the headlines in recent weeks following the hugely popular documentary series ‘The Last Dance’ about his final championship season.