The same is true for the Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2026. Indeed, the name "Commonwealth Games" its itself protected by trademark.
Here, we look at some of the ways IP will be used and protected at this year's Games, and what businesses, organisations and creatives can learn from it.
The Name
The name "Commonwealth Games" is protected as a trademark (UK00002252159). This prevents unauthorised third parties from using the name or creating an association with the Commonwealth Games. In doing so, the trademark helps the organising committee maintain control of its image and, ultimately, its reputation.
The Logo
We are seeing the Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2026 logo on our TVs, out and about in Glasgow – and Scotland more widely – and in shops. The logo is protected by a trademark (UK00004115267).
This protection prevents its use by third parties without a licence and, therefore, a right to use it. The logo is registered under 14 different classes, ranging from metals (i.e. medals) to clothing, from broadcasting to novelty items. This ensures the organising committee of the Commonwealth Games retains control of the commercial exploitation of the logo. The organising committee can use the logo itself or licence its use to manufacturers and suppliers of official merchandise creating commercial opportunities while retaining control over how it is used.
The Mascot
'Finnie', this year's Commonwealth Games mascot, is also registered as a trademark (UK00004237003). Four images of the mascot are registered, with two signature poses as well as grayscale and colour variants. Using two different poses and different colour variants ensures all variations of the mascot are protected.
Again, this mark registrations help control commercial exploitation and protect the reputation and integrity of both the games and, of course, Finnie herself!
Sponsors and Partners
Major sporting events also provide a platform for sponsors and commercial partners. Sponsors often enter into long-term agreements with the Games in order for their logos and banners to be displayed alongside the Commonwealth Games' branding.
Sponsors and partners play an important role in funding the Games, with strong IP and commercial agreements helping to protect the value of those arrangements. Brands and sponsors will want to pay the price for sponsor and exclusivity only if they are confident that those rights will be upheld and maintained.
IP protection helps prevent unauthorised third-party use and consequent risk of reputational damage which would undermine sponsorship arrangements.
Technology
Technology also plays a key role in the Games, with innovative cutting-edge technology often protected by copyright and patents. IP protects not only what we see when watching the Games, from the ultra-high-definition broadcast technology and scoring systems to the wearable tech involved to train athletes before the Games and during the competition.
By protecting innovation through patents and copyright, organisations can safeguard investment in new technology and continue developing and continue developing solutions that enhance both performance and the experience of spectators.
The lasting value of IP
Intellectual property at sporting events, and the Commonwealth Games in particular, is about far more than legal protection. It helps organisers protect reputation, generate revenue through licensing and sponsorship arrangements and support the innovation that underpins modern sport.
When the Games come to an end, the IP behind them will continue to hold value long after the medals have been awarded. The brands, technology, creative works and commercial partnerships developed around Glasgow 2026 demonstrate that IP is much more than an administrative exercise.
The same principles apply beyond major sporting events. Writers, artists and other creatives spend significant time and effort in developing original work and deserve the right protection. That is one of the reasons MFMac is proud to sponsor this year's Bloody Scotland – Scotland's international crime writing festival – where we will be sharing practical guidance on how writers and creatives can protect their IP in the publishing sector.
As Glasgow 2026 gets underway, keep an eye out for the intellectual property that sits behind the sporting spectacle.
This article follows an article by Euan Duncan published in The Scotsman and expands on some of the key intellectual property issues discussed.
