By: Kwame Bediako
Chelsea’s Cole Palmer is embroiled in a trademark dispute with a prestigious French winery company, Chateau Palmer over his attempt to trademark his nickname, ‘Cold Palmer’.
The midfielder, known for his distinctive ‘cold’ goal celebration that involves rubbing his arms and puffing his cheeks, filed last year to protect both the name and the gesture.
His bid aimed to cover a wide array of products, including clothing, food, toiletries, toys, diet drinks, and even alcoholic beverages.
The application quickly drew the attention of Chateau Palmer, a revered Bordeaux vineyard famed for wines that can fetch up to £750 per bottle.
Founded in 1814, Chateau Palmer is a well-established brand in the Margaux wine region with a strong heritage and global recognition.
Chateau Palmer Winery
The vineyard has formally opposed Palmer’s trademark request, expressing concerns that granting rights to the footballer could potentially tarnish or dilute their storied brand’s reputation and market position.
The dispute is now set to be reviewed by the UK’s Intellectual Property Office, where both parties will present their cases.
While Palmer’s camp argues that the trademark is meant to capitalise on his sporting persona and distinctive celebration, Chateau Palmer maintains that their longstanding presence in the wine industry and the similarity in names could confuse consumers and harm their brand equity.
The decision could have significant implications for trademark law relating to sports figures and established commercial brands.
Interestingly, Palmer’s celebrated ‘Cold Palmer’ celebration was first spotted in December 2023 and was reportedly inspired by a similar goal celebration performed earlier by Morgan Rogers, a former Manchester City academy teammate.
Despite this homage, Cole Palmer’s attempt to trademark the dance and nickname reflects his ambition to extend his personal brand beyond the football pitch.
The verdict from the Intellectual Property Office will not only impact Palmer’s commercial ventures but may also set a precedent for future athlete branding efforts clashing with established trademarks.
