A co-owner of a luxury car dealership in Florida is reportedly stepping down following alleged antisemitic remarks made in a text message to a customer. Naveen Maraj, co-owner of Champion Motorsports/Champion Porsche in Pompano Beach, is said to have sent a message to a potential customer that included offensive language. This incident was first reported by BocaNewsNow.com.
In the text, Maraj allegedly compared the customer’s behavior to that of a “spoiled Jew” and expressed relief that the customer would not be purchasing a car from him, deeming it a “gift from god.” The group StopAntiSemitism reacted by urging potential clients to avoid the business, citing that such a display of antisemitism has no place in commerce.
Champion’s General Manager, Mike Peters, confirmed Maraj’s resignation and emphasized the dealership’s commitment to fostering an environment steeped in respect and professionalism. Peters described the remarks as “offensive and inexcusable,” while noting that Maraj and the customer, John Wolff, had maintained a personal friendship for over 14 years, suggesting the comments were not meant to harm.
Wolff, however, disputed the context of their relationship, stating that they had not communicated in six years, and described the use of a derogatory term as inappropriate within any friendship.
Peters acknowledged that regardless of intent, the language used was not reflective of Champion’s standards, which have been established over 38 years. He also conveyed Maraj’s personal regret and apology to Wolff. The dealership has reached out to the Anti-Defamation League for further comment.
