Chelsea and England star Cole Palmer has officially trademarked his iconic ‘cold’ shivering celebration, even though he previously admitted copying it from Aston Villa forward Morgan Rogers.
The trademark, however, only applies to commercial use, meaning other players can still perform the gesture on the pitch.
Commercial rights, not pitch control
According to The Athletic, the UK Intellectual Property Office has approved Palmer’s trademark application, allowing him to protect the celebration’s use in marketing and merchandise.
The move follows his earlier trademark of his ‘Cold’ nickname, showing his intention to expand his personal brand.
Paul Jordan, co-head of trademarks and copyright at Bristows LLP, explained that the decision reflects Palmer’s growing business acumen:
“He and his advisors are taking his intellectual property seriously, building a set of rights that add commercial value rather than preparing to sue others for using the gesture.”
Following football’s branding trend
Palmer joins the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappé, Gareth Bale and Erling Haaland, all of whom have trademarked their goal celebrations for commercial ventures.
Despite the legal move, Palmer acknowledged Rogers as the original creator, saying in an interview with The Telegraph:
“I first did the ‘cold’ celebration last December against Luton. It’s a nod to my former City academy teammate Morgan Rogers. Everyone knows it’s my celebration, it fits my name and energy.”
Mixed reactions and injury comeback
Rogers has since confirmed Palmer borrowed the idea but expressed pride in his success:
“He definitely copied me. Check the timeline, I did it first. But he’s my brother, and I’m proud of him.”
Meanwhile , Palmer, who has been out since September with a groin injury, is expected to return after the international break.
Manager Enzo Maresca is hopeful the 22-year-old will feature against Barcelona in the Champions League and Arsenal in the Premier League.