‘CR7’ to ‘Cole Palmer’: When Sportsmen Trademark Goal Celebration Signatures

Chelsea and England star Cole Palmer has become the latest top footballer to take steps to protect his commercial identity.

The 23-year-old midfielder recently succeeded in trademarking the nickname 'Cold Palmer' with the UK government’s Intellectual Property Office.

This legal manoeuvre means that no one can use his popular nickname for commercial gain without first seeking his approval.

Protecting the 'Cold Palmer' Name

Palmer can now legally use the trademarked term on a diverse range of merchandise. This includes traditional sporting goods like footballs and football boots. It also extends to items such as clothes, toys, and even ice cream.

The protection does not stop there. Palmer has also successfully trademarked his full name and his autograph. He has even filed a separate application seeking to trademark a video of his signature goal celebration.

The BBC notes that he could also potentially trademark products as varied as mopeds, beard trimmers, and underwater vehicles.

The Business Behind the Brand

The central reason for registering a trademark is to safeguard intellectual property.

Registering a trademark allows people and businesses to take legal action against anyone who uses their intellectual property without their permission.

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This legal registration permits a brand to place a registered trademark symbol on products. This symbol serves as a warning to others against unauthorised use.

A trademark is versatile. It can be applied to words, sounds, colours, and logos. In England, applying costs a minimum of £170, which is equivalent to Ksh 29,540. Once approved, a trademark lasts for 10 years before renewal is required.

Joining the Elite Trademark Club

Palmer is joining a growing list of elite sports figures who have legally protected their images and iconic actions.

Several famous footballers have successfully registered trademarks. These include global icons Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and David Beckham. Ronaldo, for example, owns the commercial rights to his famed brand name, 'CR7'.

The trend of protecting goal celebrations is also well established. Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe trademarked his distinctive arms-crossed celebration back in 2019.

Lionel Messi's registered trademark is his stylized surname, "MESSI," which he successfully registered in September 2020.

Another famous example is Welsh legend Gareth Bale. He successfully trademarked his ‘Eleven of Hearts’ goal celebration in 2013.

The practice is not limited to football, either. Athletics champion Usain Bolt succeeded in registering a logo. This logo shows his signature lightning bolt victory celebration pose.

These steps ensure that sports stars’ personal brands and defining characteristics are legally protected from unauthorised commercial exploitation.