The probably most eagerly anticipated sporting European event in 2016 is just about to kick off. We’ve already alluded to sales opportunities and legal considerations in a different blog post, and – just because it’s all so important – we’d like to fill you in on the importance of legal restrictions another gentle turn of the screw.
T-shirts and accessories are essential when it comes to kitting out supporters for match day, just think jerseys and scarves. And since we’re a platform for providing print-on-demand clothing, the importance of being in line with legal restrictions is close to our heart.
In order to avoid legal repercussions or even a judicial sequel, registered word marks and image rights that we print on our clothing and accessories need to be 100% kosher. Protecting third-party rights is of course the reason here, and this is why the following wordings are an absolute no-go:
- UEFA EURO 2016
- EURO 2016
- FRANCE 2016
- Le Rendez-Vous
- Beau Jeu
- Allez les bleus
- Three Lions
- Super Victor
- Die Mannschaft
- Die Nummer 1 sind wir
The same is true for images resembling any of these:
Image rights:
Le Rendez-Vous
UEFA-Logo
EM-Pokal
Super Victor
Beau Jeu
All official logos © UEFA.com
Not only the official UEFA logos and word marks have copyrights. Logos and brands of sponsors, partners and other third parties like e.g. adidas, Carlsberg, Coca-Cola, Continental, McDonalds and Turkish Airlines will receive a lot of legal attention before and during the EU.
You can check up on trademarks with e.g. the UK Intellectual Property Office, the EU Intellectual Property Office, the German Trademark Office, the WIPO page or TMview. The latter offers a flexible filter option to look for special license holders (in this case UEFA) or categories (called nice class, here item 25 for clothing).
We hope that you’ll be able to come up with some soccertastic designs to help you benefit from the football craze!
Need advice or help with designs? Please get in touch with your friendly Partner Service or drop us a line below.
