Olympics Bring Trademark Considerations For Athletes

The Olympics have the unique ability to catapult a relatively unknown name into global celebrity. With new celebrity comes opportunity and responsibility. Athletes suddenly have a "brand" to sell and to protect. Obtaining a federal trademark registration to protect the branding on nicknames, catchphrases and slogans associated with an athlete's name can help protect the athlete's brand. It ensures that the athlete, and his or her authorized licensees, are the only persons to benefit from the brand. But before filing for federal trademark registration, athletes and their advisers should understand the reasons for proceeding and the process involved.

It's Never Too Early to Start

It may be difficult for Olympians to project their success at an Olympic Games. Generally, however, athletes that anticipate being in a position to commercialize their brand should consider protecting this future source of revenue.