Man United takes 'Football Manager' to court for using its name

Manchester United has gone to court to sue the makers of the 'Football Manager' video game.

The Manchester club claims that the developers of the popular game are infringing its trademark by using the club's name.



The club claims the use of its name "deprives the registered proprietor of its right to have the club crest licensed."

Sega Publishing and Sports Interactive said they have been legitimately using the club´s name in a football context in 'Football Manager' and its predecessor, 'Championship Manager,' since 1992 without any complaints.


At a preliminary remote hearing on Friday, United's lawyer Simon Malynicz said the money clubs make from licensing their names and logos was very significant.

"Consumers expect to see the club crest next to the name Manchester United ... and this failure to do so amounts to wrongful use," Malynicz said.

"Sega and SI 'encouraged' the use of downloadable patches containing replica trademarks which are supplied by third parties," Malynicz added.