Spanish authorities ban Barcelona FC, Real Madrid from using term 'El Clasico' to market their match

Ahead of their friendly clash against each other in Dallas this summer, Real Madrid and Barcelona FC have been banned from using the term 'El Clasico'. In their latest ruling, the Spanish Patent and Trademark Office described their trademark request as confusing and should not be used. They also gave a month time to both clubs to file a review petition against the decision.

Notably, the term 'El Clasico' is used to describe the game between two Spanish giants and has been a marketing tactic for both parties. Their rivalry and history are so great that just two words are enough to describe the game and the participating clubs. Both franchises have used this term to market their match across the globe.

The Spanish Patent and Trademark Office issued its decision because it believes there is a possibility of misunderstanding between the trademarks applied by the teams and those already used by La Liga - "ElClásico" - which it regards to be well-known and well-established.

According to the body, there is a likelihood of confusion, which "includes the likelihood of association" with the previously registered trademark. It is also concerned about similarities in "symbols" or emblems, as well as the prior brand's (La Liga) repute, with which the desired trademark "could generate a link in the mind of the consumer."

Barcelona set to face Real Madrid in Dallas

Since 2022, both Spanish giants have faced each other in six games in three different leagues, including a friendly pre-season game. This season, both teams have faced each other on five occasions in La Liga and Copa del Rey, out of which three have been clinched by Barcelona FC, while two have been won by Real Madrid.

In the last encounter at the Semifinals of Copa del Rey, Madrid beat Barcelona by 4-0. However, now, both clubs are set to face each other in a friendly game at the Dallas in the US for their American fans. Barcelona FC will be camping in the US for their pre-season preparation in July and will face Madrid on 29th July in Dallas. Last year, the two clubs squared off in front of 64,000 fans at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. The Cotton Bowl Stadium has a capacity of 92,101 spectators, so things may be considerably bigger this time.