VONDRAN LEGAL® – OLYMPIC BRAND AND TRADEMARK LAW – CALL US IF YOU NEED HELP RESPONDING TO A CEASE-AND-DESIST OR ENSURING YOUR MARKETING COMPLIES WITH USOPC RULES (877) 276-5084.
INTRODUCTION
The Olympics may celebrate unity and competition, but they also bring an avalanche of trademark and copyright enforcement. Every four years, the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) gears up for more than just sports; it ramps up legal enforcement. From small gyms to clothing brands to influencers, businesses are often surprised to learn that even phrases like “Go for the Gold” or “Team USA” can trigger serious legal issues.
If you are planning any promotion or content tied to the upcoming Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, it is critical to understand how the law works and what kinds of claims can arise.
WHAT RIGHTS DOES THE USOPC HAVE?
Under the Ted Stevens Olympic and Amateur Sports Act (36 U.S.C. § 220506), the USOPC has exclusive rights to use Olympic trademarks, symbols, and terminology in the United States.
These include:
- The word “Olympic,” “Olympiad,” “Paralympic,” and similar variations.
- The interlocking rings, the torch, and the flame.
- Phrases like “Team USA,” “Road to Paris,” or “Summer Games.”
The Act gives the USOPC broader powers than standard trademark law under the Lanham Act. In U.S. Olympic Committee v. Intelicense Corp., S.A., 737 F.2d 263 (2d Cir. 1984), the court confirmed that Congress granted the USOC (now USOPC) unique enforcement authority that does not require proof of likelihood of confusion or dilution. In other words, they can stop unauthorized use even when no confusion exists.
REAL CASES THAT SHOW THE RISK
- U.S. Olympic Committee v. American Media, Inc.: A magazine's use of “Olympic Preview” headlines without authorization led to a settlement after the USOC asserted its special rights under § 220506.
- U.S. Olympic Committee v. O-M Bread, Inc.: The “Olympic Gyro” restaurant chain was ordered to change its name despite being a local eatery.
- U.S. Olympic Committee v. Tobyhanna Camp Corp.: A summer camp was forced to rebrand after using the word “Olympic” in its marketing.
- Nike's “Find Your Greatness” Campaign (2012): A classic “ambush marketing” example. Nike cleverly avoided direct Olympic references but created ads about ordinary athletes competing during the Games. It avoided violation by not using protected marks, showing how creative compliance can work.
COMMON LEGAL ISSUES BUSINESSES FACE DURING THE GAMES
- Unauthorized Use of Olympic Symbols
Using the rings, torch, or “Olympic” name on merchandise, websites, or ads can lead to cease-and-desist letters or lawsuits. The USOPC routinely scans social media for such violations.
- Ambush Marketing and False Sponsorship
Brands that imply an Olympic partnership without approval risk claims under the Lanham Act for false endorsement and misrepresentation. Even indirect associations can violate § 43(a).
- Copyright Infringement
Only NBCUniversal and its licensees have broadcasting rights. Using Olympic footage, clips, or highlight reels on social media or in promotional videos can lead to DMCA takedowns or federal claims.
- Trademark Infringement and Dilution
Selling T-shirts, mugs, or NFTs with Olympic imagery or hashtags can violate both the USOPC's statutory rights and federal trademark law.
- Social Media and Hashtag Misuse
Using hashtags like #Olympics or #TeamUSA for promotions can be treated as unauthorized association. Even giveaways or contests tied to the Games can trigger enforcement.
WHO CAN GET CAUGHT IN THE NET?
If you're planning to post, sell, or promote anything tied to the Games, here are a few examples of who might end up on the radar:
- Apparel companies or merch sellers promoting “Olympic style” products.
- Fitness trainers hosting “Summer Games Challenges.
- Event organizers running “Olympic Night” fundraisers.
- Content creators using Olympic imagery or clips for commentary.
- Influencers tagging posts with Olympic references for visibility.
Each of these scenarios can draw letters from the USOPC's legal team, NBCUniversal's rights division, or third-party enforcement firms monitoring platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.
HOW TO STAY ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE LAW?
If you still want to join the excitement without running into legal trouble, here are a few simple rules to keep in mind:
- Avoid using the word “Olympic” or the five-ring symbol unless you have written authorization from the USOPC.
- Do not use images or videos from Olympic broadcasts without a license.
- Do not suggest a sponsorship, partnership, or endorsement that does not exist.
- When creating Olympic-themed marketing, focus on general athletic spirit, competition, and teamwork instead of specific marks or phrases.
- Consult an IP attorney before launching a campaign or printing materials.
CONCLUSION
The 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games will be one of the biggest IP enforcement events in U.S. history. With billions in sponsorship revenue at stake, the USOPC is known for protecting its marks aggressively.
Make sure your business, brand, or campaign does not get caught in their crosshairs. A quick pre-launch review can save you from years of litigation and unnecessary headaches!
CONTACT A CALIFORNIA COPYRIGHT AND TRADEMARK ATTORNEY
Since 2004, Vondran Legal® has been a trusted leader in copyright and trademark matters across the United States. The firm has handled over one thousand IP-related cases, including brand protection, fair use opinions, DMCA disputes, and online platform enforcement involving YouTube, TikTok, Shopify, Amazon, and other digital marketplaces.
If you receive an Olympic-related warning letter, need guidance on using protected marks in marketing, or want to ensure your campaign complies with USOPC and IOC trademark rules, contact Vondran Legal® for a no-cost confidential consultation.
