MLB’s Athletics have once again failed in an attempt to secure a trademark for “Vegas Athletics” and “Las Vegas Athletics.”
other businesses could reasonably use the same language
The US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) rejected the applications on the basis that the team did not have the necessary “acquired distinctiveness.” It sees the term “athletics” as being too broad for a trademark, particularly when it’s added to a geographic location, as other businesses could reasonably use the same language.
The USPTO also dismissed the team’s argument that its use of “Athletics” in other cities, such as Oakland and Philadelphia, should apply. The trademark office stated that each trademark application is considered on an individual basis.
One of the issues for the organization is that it has not officially started marketing using the new Las Vegas name. Its ballpark on the former site of the Tropicana is still in the early phases of construction and the A’s are expected to continue playing in Sacramento until the Nevada stadium is ready to open in 2028.
A concern of the franchise is that others will continue using the “Las Vegas Athletics” name until it gets approval for the trademark.
