Cole Palmer Secures Trademark for Celebration and Nickname

Cole Palmer’s trademark application has received approval from the United Kingdom’s Intellectual Property Office, as reported by The Athletic.

The Chelsea star had previously secured a trademark for his ‘Cold’ nickname and has now taken a similar step with his celebration. While this action does not prevent other players from imitating him on the field, it does ensure that no one can commercially exploit his celebration without his explicit permission.

Paul Jordan, a partner and co-head of the trademark, designs, and copyright group at Bristows LLP, commented to The Athletic, “This indicates that Cole Palmer, or his advisors, are taking their intellectual property and image rights very seriously. They are working to create a comprehensive portfolio of registered rights that can be showcased as valuable assets, especially when negotiating deals. This is a proactive approach to intellectual property management, rather than pursuing litigation against those using the gesture.”

Palmer’s decision follows in the footsteps of several football legends. Cristiano Ronaldo has previously trademarked his iconic ‘Siuuuu’ celebration, while Kylian Mbappe has trademarked his signature move of crossing his arms and tucking his hands under his armpits after scoring. Former Real Madrid player Gareth Bale trademarked his ‘Eleven of Hearts’ celebration, and Erling Haaland’s well-known yoga pose has also been officially protected. Notably, Arsenal defender Myles Lewis-Skelly recently emulated Haaland’s celebration during a match against Manchester City.

Although Palmer has become closely associated with this celebration, he has acknowledged that he drew inspiration from former Manchester City teammate Morgan Rogers. He shared with The Telegraph, “I first performed the ‘cold’ celebration last December in a match against Luton, which we won 3-2. It’s a tribute to my friend Morgan Rogers, who is now at Aston Villa. It symbolizes joy, passion, and a strong determination for the game, and it humorously complements my name. Everyone recognizes it as my celebration. Many may have done it, but it is distinctly mine.”

Rogers, however, has claimed ownership of the celebration, stating, “He definitely copied me; it’s my celebration. If you check the timeline, I did it first. He is one of my closest friends, and I couldn’t be prouder of him.”

Palmer is not the only player to have adopted this celebration. Valencia winger Diego Lopez recently asserted that he originated the idea, stating to Relevo, “I haven’t received any recognition yet… Perhaps it’s because he doesn’t have my address or for some other reason. I can assure you that I’ve been doing this celebration for four years, and I intend to keep doing it. In fact, I hope to do it more often, as it means I will have scored more goals.”

Palmer’s celebration has been absent from the pitch for some time due to a groin injury sustained in September. However, he is nearing a return and is expected to rejoin the Chelsea squad following the international break. Coach Enzo Maresca has expressed optimism that Palmer will be available for critical upcoming matches against Barcelona in the Champions League and Arsenal in the Premier League.