Legal ruling gives league control of famous brand, forcing clubs to find new way to describe historic rivalry
In an unprecedented move that changes football tradition, Real Madrid and Barcelona have been officially banned from using the name “El Clásico” for their historic rivalry match this Sunday. The prohibition comes after La Liga won a legal battle giving them exclusive commercial rights to the famous term.
The Spanish league secured the “ELCLASICO” trademark in May 2023, granting them sole control over its commercial use. This means neither club can use the name in promotional materials, marketing campaigns, or official negotiations surrounding what was traditionally known as one of football’s greatest rivalries.
The branding ban adds another layer to the growing tension between Spain’s biggest clubs and the league administration. Recent conflicts include the controversial—and now cancelled—plan to move a Barcelona league match to Miami, which prompted protests from players across La Liga.
Despite the naming restrictions, Sunday’s match at Santiago Bernabéu promises its usual high stakes. Barcelona arrives fresh from a 6-1 Champions League victory, while Real Madrid boasts in-form striker Kylian Mbappé, who has already scored 10 league goals this season.
While the clubs must now refer to the fixture without its traditional name, for fans worldwide, the match will always remain El Clásico in spirit, even if not in official branding.
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