F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Is Formula 1 heading for logo trademark trouble?

Just a few months after introducing its new logo, Formula 1 could be heading for a trademark battle with industrial conglomerate 3M.

A year after taking control of F1, Liberty Media presented the sport's new logo after the 2017 season finale in Abu Dhabi.

The new design, which replaced the 23-year-old flying 'F' linked to the Bernie Ecclestone era, was introduced with much fanfare, but its concept bears a striking resemblance to an existing image used by a specialized line of support products, braces and compression tights called 'Futuro' and owned by Post-It Notes maker 3M.

According to The Telegraph, 3M filed its logo application last year, but before Formula 1 registered its new image.

A 3M spokesman said: "3M filed a US trademark application for the Futuro logo on Feb 20 2017. Also, we have not had any discussions about the logo with the other party. We are looking into this matter further."

Given the clear distance which exists between Grand Prix racing and a brand of compression tights, one would believe that there is only a remote possibility of a claim or dispute actually reaching the courts.

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Michael Delaney

Recent Posts

Alpine double-podium in Brazil could deliver $30 million windfall

Alpine’s remarkable double podium at the São Paulo Grand Prix with Esteban Ocon and Pierre…

14 hours ago

F1i's Driver Ratings for the 2024 São Paulo GP

Alexander Albon, Williams (Did Not Start): 5.5/10 Alex Albon is definitely going through something of…

16 hours ago

Jos Verstappen rips British media after Brazilian Max fest

Jos Verstappen wasted no time after his son spectacular win at the São Paulo Grand…

17 hours ago

Leclerc left with ‘mixed feelings’ after disappointing Sao Paulo GP

Charles Leclerc's weekend in Sao Paulo was unfortunately a stark contrast to Ferrari's recent triumphs…

19 hours ago

Back when Kimi knew exactly what he was doing

Twelve years ago on this day, Kimi Raikkonen took a popular win at the 2012…

20 hours ago

Mercedes fined for starting grid tyre pressure infringement

The Mercedes team was hit with a fine by the FIA after Sunday’s Sao Paulo…

21 hours ago