New York Company Sues Chiefs Stars Kelce and Mahomes Over 1587 Prime Trademark
A New York-based shoe and apparel company has filed a lawsuit against Kansas City Chiefs stars Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes, alleging that a restaurant backed by the players is using a similar name and causing significant harm to its business operations. The legal action centers on the trademark for 1587 Prime, with the company claiming that the athletes' venture is infringing on its established brand identity.
Details of the Trademark Dispute
The lawsuit, filed in February 2026, asserts that the restaurant associated with Kelce and Mahomes is leveraging a name that closely mirrors the company's own trademark, leading to potential confusion among consumers and damaging the firm's market position. The New York company, which specializes in footwear and apparel, argues that this similarity is not coincidental and is negatively impacting its revenue and brand reputation.
According to the legal documents, the company has invested substantial resources in building the 1587 Prime brand over the years, and the alleged infringement by the high-profile athletes threatens to undermine these efforts. The suit seeks damages and an injunction to prevent further use of the contested name by Kelce and Mahomes' restaurant.
Impact on Business and Branding
The case highlights the growing trend of celebrities entering the business world and the legal challenges that can arise from trademark conflicts. For Kelce and Mahomes, both renowned figures in the NFL, this lawsuit adds a layer of complexity to their entrepreneurial endeavors beyond the football field. The New York company contends that the association with the athletes' fame has exacerbated the harm, as it draws more attention to the competing brand.
Legal experts note that trademark disputes involving public figures often attract significant media scrutiny, which can influence public perception and legal outcomes. In this instance, the company is emphasizing the economic losses it has suffered due to the alleged infringement, citing a decline in sales and customer confusion as key factors in its claim.
Broader Implications for Celebrity Ventures
This lawsuit serves as a cautionary tale for other celebrities looking to launch business ventures, underscoring the importance of thorough trademark research and legal due diligence. As Kelce and Mahomes navigate this legal battle, the outcome could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future, particularly when involving high-profile individuals.
The New York company's action also reflects the competitive nature of the apparel and dining industries, where brand identity is crucial for success. With the case now in the courts, both parties are expected to present their arguments in detail, with potential ramifications for their respective business strategies moving forward.
